“We’ve played four games” - Real Madrid star takes swipe at El Clasico rivals Barcelona
Real Madrid full-back Dani Carvajal has taken a swipe at Barcelona, who are currently leading the La Liga rankings. This comes ahead of their return from the international break, with clubs aiming to increase their points as the league returns.
The Blaugrana currently sit at the top of the table with 12 points from their first four games of the season. They have been in remarkable form, winning every game, with the highlight being a comprehensive 7-0 mauling of Real Valladolid.
The case has been different for Los Blancos, who have struggled to enter final gear. Despite the signing of Kylian Mbappe, Madrid have only picked up eight points from four games, drawing two games and winning two.
While Barcelona sit four points ahead, Dani Carvajal believes they will slip up and lose ground soon. The Real Madrid full-back said (via Football Espana):
“We’ve played four games, it’s a long distance race, and the schedule is getting tight now. The incoming matches are demanding and they will surely drop a point or two."
Real Madrid have to face Real Sociedad away from home later today (September 14), and they will hope to win all three points. This will put some pressure on Barcelona, who play Girona away from home a day later (September 15).
Real Madrid legend hails Barcelona prodigy with words of praise
A vital part of Barca's run to the top of the La Liga table has been Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old has racked up one goal and four assists in those four games, and he looks set to continue his impressive run of form.
This brilliant start came after he actively guided Spain to win Euro 2024 with one goal and four assists in seven appearances. He notably turned 17 years just one day to the final against England, which they won 2-0.
The youngster's quality has led to praise from Madrid legend Guti, who said on a show in Spain (via Barca Universal):
“Lamine could be the best of all right now. Lamine is the most successful of the great players. He could very well be the best of them all. He’s making a significant mark not only with Barcelona but also with the national team.
"He is a reference point right now. You know what happens? This is about how you are now."
Lamine Yamal will hope to continue his remarkable rise to the top of Spanish football as a teenager with Barcelona. The winger will also hope this can lead to potentially beating Real Madrid to the domestic title.