LaLiga: Barcelona’s Raphinha speaks on rivalry with Yamal

Barcelona winger Raphinha has firmly stated that he has no rivalry with teammate Lamine Yamal.

According to Raphinha, he and Yamal merely challenge each other on the pitch and motivate one another to perform better for the Catalan club.

The Brazil international made the remarks ahead of Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League clash with Club Brugge on Wednesday.

“No, that rivalry simply doesn’t exist [between us]. What truly exists between us is a mutual desire to perform at our best, push each other, and help the team succeed,” Raphinha said, as quoted by TouchlineX.

“We challenge each other on the pitch, but always in a constructive way — never personal. Off the field, our relationship is very strong. We share laughs, experiences, and support each other both on and off the pitch. I feel as if Lamine were part of the family.”