Marcus Sorg admits Lamine Yamal affected by El Clasico atmosphere – “Today wasn’t very easy for him” | OneFootball

It was a disappointing afternoon for Barcelona, who were defeated by Real Madrid in the first El Clasico of the season. Fermin Lopez scored for the Catalans, but goals from Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham ensured a win for the hosts at the Santiago Bernabeu.

As per Diario AS, assistant head coach Marcus Sorg gave his assessment on the match, as he admitted that Barcelona were nowhere near their best.

“I think in the end, we made more mistakes than we’re used to. It’s true that our defensive level was very low. In the final third, our penetration power did not allow us to create more chances.”

Sorg also spoke on Lamine Yamal, who had a quiet afternoon in the Spanish capital.

“It wasn’t easy, but we spoke at half-time to look for more one-on-ones. They have been better than us, we have to accept it. Sometimes defenders are good and you have to accept it. Many times they defended two against one and wanted to prevent him from entering the area. It’s normal. He’s young, he has to improve and we’re going to help him.

“He’s coming from an injury. He needs rhythm, matches… It’s normal. He is 18 years old and you have to give him time and help him. It’s normal, the opponents try everything against him and to defend well they adapt. We have to work harder and help him to get the best version on the pitch.”

Image via David Ramos/Getty Images

Sorg was asked about whether the noise surrounding Lamine Yamal had affected him during the match.

“Maybe. Maybe a little. Because he is learning to deal with the public, the whistles… It’s a process. It’s true that he’s normally very motivated and today wasn’t very easy for him.”

Sorg: Barcelona missed Robert Lewandowski

Barcelona were without a number of players against Real Madrid, among them Robert Lewandowski, whom Sorg admitted was a particular loss.

“He is a reference centre-forward, we miss him. But we have to stick to the situation. In football there are injuries. We don’t want to complain about anything. Referees, injuries… The season is long. There are 28 more games left and we are not worried. There is a long way to go.”