Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal spoke to each other following former’s handshake snub | OneFootball

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal spoke to each other following former’s handshake snub | OneFootball

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·13 November 2023

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal spoke to each other following former’s handshake snub

Article image:Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal spoke to each other following former’s handshake snub

The viral moment from Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Alaves featured Robert Lewandowski’s notable frustration towards a certain Lamine Yamal grabbed all the attention.

While these images quickly circulated on social media, Pere Punti, a photographer from Mundo Deportivo, captured a crucial subsequent development in the story.


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There is more than what meets the eye

In the 78th minute, Lewandowski successfully converted a penalty, marking the second goal for Barça.

Following the celebrations with his teammates, including Yamal, the experienced player approached the younger counterpart for a private conversation.

Later on, as they approached the centre of the field, the two engaged in a discussion characterized by a relaxed tone, devoid of any tension or negativity.

There was a calmer interaction between the two, beyond the initial viral images that sparked widespread speculation.

Article image:Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal spoke to each other following former’s handshake snub

Lewandowski and Yamal spoke after the former scored the winning goal against Alaves (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

The moment captured adds depth to the story, emphasizing the positive resolution and amiable exchange between the players after the earlier apparent snub.

But what really happened?

In the 72nd minute, with the match deadlocked at 1-1, Yamal found himself in a promising position to deliver a pass to Lewandowski, potentially creating a favourable goal-scoring opportunity.

However, rather than opting for the pass, the young player chose to go solo, leading to his attempt being thwarted by Alaves goalkeeper.

Lewandowski expressed his displeasure at Yamal’s decision, visibly frustrated and gesturing angrily towards the youngster.

The tension did not end there. Following the incident, Yamal approached Lewandowski, extending his hand for a handshake as a gesture of reconciliation. However, the veteran, wearing a stern expression, walked past the Barcelona youngster.

After the winning goal, though, the two reconciled and Barcelona will now hope the matter doesn’t escalate like it did with Ilkay Gundogan’s comment after El Clasico.

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