Lamin Yamal, Barcelona's rising winger, marked his coming of age with a boisterous party attended by top streamers, influencers, teammates, and musicians. The celebration soon became the subject of rumours: allegedly, people with achondroplasia were hired to entertain the guests, and the Ministry of Social Rights even launched an investigation. We spoke with Blaugrana president Joan Laporta about what is happening around the young talent and how the club responds to the criticism.
Private Life Under the Spotlight
— Mr Laporta, yet another scandal: some say the party was overly lavish, others mention potentially unethical entertainment. What feelings does this story evoke in you?
— First of all, we mustn’t forget that it was a private party. Lamin has turned eighteen, and every step he takes is automatically caught in the media spotlight. I’m even a bit upset that I couldn’t attend — the lads had a great time and, frankly, there’s nothing criminal in that. When we were eighteen, we all did something noisy.
A Reply to the Doubters
— The Association of People with Achondroplasia stated that short-statured people were invited “for show.” How does the club respond?
— We respect every person's dignity. If the investigation confirms any violations, the organisers will be held accountable. But for now, according to our information, these were professional performers who accepted the job. You know, judging by internet photos is the most thankless task.
Professionalism Above All
— Did the party affect the team’s pre-season preparations?
— Quite the opposite. Lamin returned to the training complex earlier than the coaches expected and is giving everything in every drill. His GPS load metrics are among the best in the squad. Therefore, the staff have not the slightest complaint: discipline, recovery, balance of power — everything is on point.
A Lesson for Every Academy Prospect
— What is the main takeaway from this situation?
— Every footballer has a private life, and it’s important to separate it from work. Lamin set a good example: he celebrated, drew a line under the episode, and immediately refocused on football. I want every La Masia prospect to understand: you can be creative off the pitch, but on the grass it’s your feet that should do the talking, not the tabloids.
Meanwhile, the team is preparing for the start of La Liga, and if Yamal keeps working with the same commitment, we will see a mature player who not only throws vibrant parties but also makes the difference in the decisive moments of a match.
