Mourinho – ‘I am not stupid’ – keeps game plan under wraps for Madrid’s trip to Barcelona

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho revealed on Saturday that his team has no intention of devising a specific strategy to counteract Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal during Sunday's El Clásico match at the Spotify Camp Nou. According to Fabrizio Romano on X, Mourinho stated, "There’s no specific plan anti-Lamine," during a pre-match press conference.

The Real Madrid coach emphasized that Yamal is a top-tier player who deserves respect, but altering their tactics or team structure is a different matter. Mourinho reiterated that his players, like those of Barcelona, are all of high caliber. He stressed that while he acknowledges Yamal's proficiency, Real Madrid will not change their tactical approach or squad structure for one individual.

Mourinho also noted that Barcelona's squad is robust, matching the caliber of his own players. The comments were made ahead of a critical La Liga encounter. Real Madrid trails Barcelona by six points and will be without suspended player Vinicius Junior. Mourinho's approach differs from more reactive strategies sometimes adopted against standout attackers.

He affirmed that Real Madrid will adhere to their established principles rather than reshaping their game around the young Barcelona forward. El Clásico is set for Sunday evening at the Camp Nou.