I’m a Muslim, don’t mock my religion – Lamine Yamal

Spain international Lamine Yamal has spoken out after anti-Muslim chants marred his country’s goalless friendly against Egypt national football team, making a direct and personal appeal to fans to respect his faith.

The 18-year-old forward, who plays for FC Barcelona, took to Instagram to address the incident that occurred at the RCDE Stadium during the first half of the match.

“Yesterday at the stadium the chant of ‘the one who doesn’t jump is a Muslim’ was heard,” Yamal wrote. “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.”

Framing his response around his identity, Yamal made it clear that mocking religion—regardless of intent—is unacceptable.

“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,” he added.

The teenage star stressed that football should unite, not divide.

“Football is to be enjoyed and encouraged, not to disrespect people for who they are or what they believe in.”

He ended his message on a hopeful note, thanking fans who came out to support the team, adding: “See you at the World Cup.”

Authorities have since opened an investigation into the chants, which have drawn criticism given the fixture involved Egypt, a predominantly Muslim nation.