Cucurella: 'Lamine Yamal was not the target of the offensive chants in Barcelona'
Marc Cucurella, Chelsea’s full-back, has addressed the controversy that overshadowed the Spain vs Egypt friendly match in Barcelona.
The game, played at RCDE Stadium, ended 0-0 but was disrupted by incidents that drew widespread criticism from fans and football authorities.
Marc Cucurella comments on Spain vs Egypt friendly controversy in Barcelona, condemning anti-Islamic chants and reflecting on crowd reaction and debut moment.
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The first signs of tension came when sections of the crowd booed the Egyptian national anthem. Later, around the 20-minute mark, some supporters began chanting anti-Islamic slogans, which continued despite repeated warnings over the stadium speakers.
The situation triggered strong reactions across football circles. The Spanish Football Federation and national team coach Luis de la Fuente both condemned the behaviour, while Lamine Yamal, who has confirmed he is Muslim, described the chants as “unacceptable ignorance and racism.”
Cucurella told RTVE: “In Juan’s case, I think everyone expected it; we knew it and discussed it during the week, but in the end I think it was a minority.”
He also highlighted a more positive moment in the stands, saying: “I heard them chanting Juan García’s name, and that was a very special moment for him, as it was also his debut.”
Reflecting on the offensive chants, he added: “It’s a shame. I don’t think they were trying to hurt Lamine, but rather trying to annoy or harass others.”
Cucurella concluded that greater caution is needed in football stadiums, stressing that such behaviour can offend people and disrupt what should be a moment of celebration and enjoyment.
