Robert Lewandowski’s lifesaving LaLiga appearance against Alavés was marred by a display of rudeness towards young striker Lamine Yamal, with the Pole’s antics sharply criticized by several voices surrounding Barça.
Lewandowski, 33, is 21 years older than Lamine Yamal. Any La Masia product is highly popular at Barça, especially a young lad who has only recently joined the first squad and has already made an impact. Although Lewandowski did protect him when Duarte went after him after a dive for a penalty, no one expected the former Bayern Munich star, who is generally exceptional in dealing with his teammates, to display this side of his personality.
Former Barcelona player Gerard López called the behavior “unacceptable” on Spanish television network Movistar Plus. Gerard Autet of Catalan media source Esport 3 also criticized the senior player’s actions, adding that “things like this happen, but it is a disproportionate, bad reaction.”
The forward was also attacked by authoritative press voices. Llus Flaquer, one of Spain’s most respected Barcelona analysts, described the behavior as “out of place,” while Joan Mara Pou, a Catalan commentator for Barcelona-based RAC-1, tweeted that “this ugly move from Lewandowski is not a sign of a good leader.” Dani Garrido, the host of Carrusel Deportivo, possibly Spain’s largest football radio show, merely said it was “regrettable.”
