Umtiti says Real Madrid completely neutralised Lamine Yamal in El Clasico

Former Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti said Lamine Yamal was unable to influence the game as Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in El Clasico.

The Spain winger endured another difficult evening after also struggling against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Yamal scored in that match but Barcelona still suffered a 4-2 defeat, and he was unable to produce a convincing display against Real Madrid.

Speaking to DAZN, in comments reported by Foot Mercato, Umtiti highlighted the problems Yamal faced against a disciplined Real Madrid defence.

“We did not see Yamal at his best,” said the former France international. “That is when we realise how difficult football is, even for a player like him.”

Umtiti added: “Real Madrid’s defence succeeded in completely neutralising Lamine Yamal.”

Foot Mercato’s editors awarded Yamal a rating of 3 out of 10. They said Marc Cucurella’s defensive strength had previously limited the winger’s threat completely, drawing a comparison with the way Lucas Hernandez dealt with him against Paris Saint-Germain a few days earlier.

The result leaves the focus on Barcelona’s response in La Liga, with the club listed to face Deportivo Alaves on 31 October 2026. Real Madrid are listed to play on 1 November 2026, while Racing Santander are also included in the league fixture schedule.