El Clásico: No specific plan to stop Yamal, says Mourinho

Real Madrid's manager José Mourinho revealed on Saturday that his team will not devise a specific strategy to counter Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal in Sunday’s El Clásico at the Spotify Camp Nou. According to Fabrizio Romano on X, Mourinho stated during a pre-match press conference, “There’s no specific plan anti-Lamine.” Mourinho emphasized that the young French player is exceptional and should be respected, but altering the team’s tactics or structure solely to neutralise one player is a different matter.

He reiterated that all players, including those on both sides, are of high quality. Mourinho added, “Barcelona’s squad is strong, just like ours.” Despite Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by six points in La Liga, Mourinho highlighted that his team is still developing. He noted that the match is highly important, and Vinicius Junior, who is suspended, will not be available for selection.

Mourinho’s comments stand in contrast to some teams’ reactive strategies when facing formidable attackers. He reiterated that Real Madrid will adhere to their own principles rather than modifying their gameplay solely to address Yamal. El Clásico is set for Sunday evening at the Camp Nou.