Alonso sidesteps Yamal’s ‘cheating’ jibe as El Clasico tensions rise
MADRID: Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso declined to comment on Saturday after Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal suggested the capital club “cheat” and “complain” in a televised interview on Friday. Instead, Alonso directed his focus to Sunday’s El Clasico at the Bernabeu, emphasising the importance of the match for his LaLiga leaders who have 24 points, two ahead of Barca in second. Alonso faced repeated questions from reporters regarding Yamal’s remarks, made during an appearance on a Kings League program alongside former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique. The 18-year-old Barca forward compared Real to Porcinos, a Kings League team, stating: “Of course! Yes, they cheat, they complain ...” The comments, which Pique supported, stirred debate in the build-up to one of soccer’s most iconic fixtures. When asked about Yamal’s statements, Alonso dismissed the topic. “It’s an important match ...