Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has weighed in on the rising tension surrounding El Clásico, claiming that Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal helped “heat up” the fixture with his remarks ahead of last season’s meetings. Speaking to Partidazo Cope, the Belgian shot-stopper said Barça “never respected” Real Madrid after their victories and suggested that certain comments from the teenager added extra fire to the rivalry.
Courtois praised Lamine Yamal’s talent, calling him a “great player” who is destined to leave a mark on FC Barcelona’s future. However, he also noted that the youngster’s words before the high-pressure clash created unnecessary spark. “I think he spoke in a certain way ahead of the Clásico, he heated things up a bit,” Courtois said, acknowledging that intense moments can lead to statements that players later regret. “But that’s what a Clásico is like.”
Reflecting on the 2023–24 campaign, Courtois admitted that Real Madrid needed the added motivation. After suffering four defeats to Barcelona the previous season, Los Blancos were eager to respond. “Sometimes we need that atmosphere,” he said. “We needed that fire from an enemy again… and we had to go after them because when they won, they did not show us any respect.”
