Galatasaray Star Changes His Stance on Barcelona Star Lamine Yamal: ‘Of course I know you’

According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 14, 2026, Galatasaray midfielder Mario Lemina has softened his earlier comments about Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal after the teenager delivered an outstanding performance in the Catalans 4-1 Champions League victory in Istanbul on Tuesday.

Lemina attracted attention before the encounter when previous remarks resurfaced on social media. The Gabon international had seemingly questioned Yamal’s reputation while expressing admiration for his teammate, Leroy Sane.

However, the Barcelona youngster responded impressively on the pitch. Yamal was named Player of the Match after producing an excellent display that included a remarkable fake-rabona assist for Anthony Gordon’s goal.

Following the match, the 18-year-old took to social media to share several photographs from the encounter. He accompanied the post with the caption, “Do you know me now?” alongside a ghost emoji, seemingly responding to Lemina’s earlier comments.

The Galatasaray midfielder has now appeared to put the disagreement behind him. Lemina shared an Instagram story featuring a photograph of his young son posing alongside Yamal after the Champions League encounter.

“Of course I know you, my little one is crazy about you. Congratulations Lamine Yamal,” the 33-year-old wrote.

The exchange appears to have brought the matter to a friendly conclusion. Lemina was among the Galatasaray players who approached Yamal after the final whistle to arrange a photograph for his son.

The Barcelona winger now faces a significant period in his career as the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches. Yamal is considered one of the leading contenders for the prestigious individual award alongside Harry Kane.

His impressive performances over the past year have strengthened his reputation. He also helped Barcelona secure the league title while winning the World Cup with Spain.

Winning the Ballon d’Or would make Yamal the youngest recipient in the award’s history, surpassing Ronaldo Nazario’s longstanding record. The ceremony will take place in London on October 26, just one day after Barcelona face Real Madrid in the season’s first El Clasico.

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