‘Disrespectful’ – Barcelona’s Yamal condemns anti-Muslim chants in Spain game

Barcelona and Spain international Lamine Yamal has spoken out after Islamophobic chants were heard during Spain’s 1-1 friendly draw against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium on Tuesday.

Posting on Instagram, Yamal addressed the incident saying:

“I am a Muslim, Alhamdulillah. Yesterday at the stadium the chant of ‘the one who doesn’t jump is a Muslim’ was heard. I know I was going for the rival team and it wasn’t something personal against me, but as a Muslim person it doesn’t stop being disrespectful and something intolerable.

“I understand that not all fanatics are like this, but to those who sing these things: using a religion as a mockery in a field leaves you ignorant and racist people. Football is to be enjoyed and encouraged, not to disrespect people for who they are or what they believe in.

“With that being said, thank you to the people who came to cheer us on, see you at the World Cup.”

Authorities and federation respond

Spanish police confirmed they are investigating the chants, describing them as “Islamophobic and xenophobic.” The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) also condemned the behaviour, while Spain coach Luis de la Fuente called it “totally and absolutely repulsive.”

The incident has raised talks about racism and religious intolerance in European football, highlighting ongoing challenges in stadium culture despite campaigns to promote inclusivity.