"Over the past two months, in terms of his character, I can't stand him. I'm being straightforward. I don't care about those who disagree with my opinion, from Barca fans to Yamal fans. I'm not bothered," Rami told viewers during a live stream on Twitch on 23/7.

The former defender, who made 36 appearances for the French national team, acknowledged Yamal's immense talent on the field. However, he believes the young Spanish star has character issues. "The truth is, he's impeccable when it comes to football. Yamal will surely win the Ballon d'Or or European Cups soon. But there's a problem with his character… damn it," Rami added.

Yamal walks past Ronaldo during the awards ceremony after the Nations League final on 8/6. Photo: AFP

Yamal walks past Ronaldo during the awards ceremony after the Nations League final on 8/6. Photo: AFP

Rami's main grievance stems from how Yamal shook hands with Cristiano Ronaldo after Spain lost to Portugal 5-3 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the Nations League final on 8/6. The 39-year-old former defender considered it an inappropriate gesture from a player on the losing side. Rami used even harsher language: "I was really annoyed with the way he shook Ronaldo's hand. It all started from there. I also didn't like Yamal making a video about Ronaldo."

Rami also criticized Yamal's "sagging pants" style. He cited misinformation when attacking the 18-year-old talent. "And then there's his style of dressing with sagging pants... Sagging pants originated in US and Mexican prisons, it implies that the person is looking for a partner. I'm really bothered by Yamal's style," the defender, who retired in 2023, said.

Rami during his relationship with American actress Pamela Anderson. Photo: Paris Match

Rami during his relationship with American actress Pamela Anderson. Photo: Paris Match

While sagging pants did originate in US and Mexican prisons, Rami's explanation is based on a false rumor. In reality, inmates were often issued oversized uniforms, and due to suicide prevention efforts, they were not allowed to wear belts. This resulted in loose, sagging pants that exposed their buttocks. Upon release, some continued to dress this way to identify each other before American rappers popularized the style as a symbol of rebellion.

Rami also mentioned Yamal's recent lavish 18th birthday party, where he hired little people and several attractive women to perform. "Yamal threw a party, and people started talking about those parties. But wait a minute! He's just become famous, received the number 10 shirt, and is wearing all sorts of flashy jewelry with huge diamonds... Does he think he's American? How annoying."

Yamal in unconventional attire at his 18th birthday party.

He wears a large diamond ring.

… poses with a magnificent birthday cake.

Yamal strikes a cool pose with his teammates.

Beyond his football career, Rami is also known for his tumultuous personal life. His former girlfriend, actress Pamela Anderson, accused him of domestic violence after their breakup in 2019. According to French newspaper Le Parisien, Rami's statements immediately attracted attention and sparked strong reactions from the online community present during the live stream. The 39-year-old former center-back's harsh criticism and vulgar language were the focus of much outrage.

Following the public backlash, in an Instagram post, Rami justified his comments: "I wasn't talking about Lamine Yamal as a footballer, but about some recent behaviors which, in my opinion, could lead to a precarious future if they continue. Of course, it was just a clumsy metaphor on my part, and I absolutely didn't mean to offend his mother or family."

Ha Phuong (via Le Parisien & Le Figaro)