Overview
- Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal said on a Kings League broadcast that Real Madrid “steal” referee decisions, a clip that went viral across Spain.
- Spanish reports say Real Madrid players took offense and will use the remarks as motivation, with captain Dani Carvajal planning to speak to Yamal after the game.
- Raphinha suffered a hamstring setback and will miss Sunday’s match, joining absentees including Robert Lewandowski, Marc-André ter Stegen, Gavi and Dani Olmo, per ESPN and other outlets.
- Hansi Flick’s touchline ban stands after TAD rejected Barcelona’s appeal, so assistant Marcus Sorg will lead from the technical area and said the criticism will motivate Yamal.
- Real Madrid host with a two‑point LaLiga lead over Barcelona, as Barca monitor Jules Kounde and Ferran Torres after Saturday training updates from Sorg.