Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, is facing a storm of criticism after a controversial social media post following Barcelona’s dramatic 4-3 loss to Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League semi-final. The 17 year old forward had earlier boasted about a “victorious win,” a statement that many fans and critics considered premature and tone-deaf given the actual result.
The incident caught the attention of Nigerian Afrobeat star Zlatan Ibile, who took to Twitter with a cryptic message reading “Shanu mi,” a Yoruba phrase meaning “praise me.” The post has left fans speculating whether Zlatan was supporting, teasing, or simply commenting on Yamal’s overconfidence. Zlatan’s involvement has added an international dimension to what was initially a local football controversy.
Yamal, who has previously expressed admiration for Afrobeats artists like Burna Boy and Rema, has now found himself the subject of heated online debate. Critics argue that his post reflects a lack of humility, while supporters point out that he is still very young and learning how to navigate fame and public attention.
Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold humorously weighed in, saying, “Zlatan go dey cry like this,” highlighting the playful yet critical nature of fan reactions. Social media platforms have been flooded with discussions about the incident, with some users urging patience: “Please be patient with Yamal. He’s only 17 and will learn as he grows.” Others emphasize the need for humility and caution when young athletes interact publicly on social media.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by young footballers in the digital age, where a single post can trigger worldwide scrutiny. As the debate continues, many are watching to see how Yamal will respond whether with an apology, clarification, or a demonstration of growth and maturity. The coming days will likely be pivotal in shaping the public perception of Barcelona’s rising star and the cultural conversation around athlete conduct online.