25 March 2025
Former Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart expressed understanding for Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal's reaction to his previous critical comments, stressing that his intentions were good. Van der Vaart sparked controversy when he commented on Yamal's performance in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League match between Spain and the Netherlands, criticizing some of the 17-year-old's actions, saying: "His pants are a little low, his effort on the pitch is low."
The young Spanish winger responded after his team's penalty shootout victory in the second leg by posting an Instagram post showing his pants down, with the sarcastic caption: "Lowered pants, goal, missed penalty... and on to the semi-finals! Come on, Spain!"
Instead of escalating, the former Dutch player chose to respond wisely, saying on the "Rondo" program on Ziggo Sport: "I advise him not to worry too much about the opinion of a former player who is 'a bit fat,' because it doesn't matter."
He continued: "My intentions are good. When you receive a lot of praise at 17, you can start to think that the world revolves around you. We've all been there."
Van der Vaart, who previously played in La Liga, continued: "In Spain, people react with enthusiasm. Let them get angry, it doesn't matter to me." He continued: "My family is half Spanish, and I respect everyone. I didn't say Jamal is bad. He's a great player, and I hope he maintains his humility."
