'We tell him off': Raphinha opens up on Barcelona leaders mentoring Lamine Yamal

Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, Raphinha described Yamal as a "younger brother" and said the Barcelona dressing room is not afraid to correct the Spain international when needed.

"He's 11 years younger than me," Raphinha said. "I really see him as if he were a much younger brother. In fact, he's even younger than my own younger brother. That's why I see him as a younger brother. I try to give him advice as best I can."

The Brazilian said his role is less about improving Yamal's footballing ability and more about guiding him through the pressures that come with stardom at such a young age.

"Obviously, when it comes to individual characteristics and quality, I can't teach him. You don't learn that overnight. It's a natural talent," he added. "I always try to pass on a bit of my experience to him.

"He's a very good lad. He always listens, often asks for advice, and even if he does something silly, we tell him off and he listens."

The pair have become one of Barcelona's standout partnerships this season, both on and off the pitch, with their shared goal celebrations regularly attracting attention on social media. Raphinha explained the celebrations emerged organically and reflected the bond between the two players.

"We saw it online and agreed to do it. It went well," he said. "It doesn't have any great symbolic meaning, other than that sense of brotherhood."

Raphinha also looked ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he is expected to be one of Brazil's senior figures, and admitted he would relish the prospect of facing Yamal's Spain in the final.

"Neymar and Lamine Yamal have agreed on a Brazil v Spain final at the World Cup," he said. "I'd be up for a match like that in the final too. It would be incredible."

Despite the fierce rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, Raphinha insisted club allegiances are quickly forgotten once Brazil players link up on international duty alongside stars such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Eder Militao.

"When we join the national team, we practically leave the club rivalry behind because we know we're defending our country regardless of where we play," he said.

"Even in the Clasicos we respect each other. Each of us defends our team with whatever we've got, but once we're in the national team, the rivalry ceases to exist."

The 29-year-old also acknowledged the growing pressure and responsibility he feels ahead of the World Cup, particularly after emerging as one of Brazil's leaders since the previous tournament.

"I feel that I have a different level of maturity now compared to when I first arrived," Raphinha said. "I feel that I carry more responsibility now than I did before.

"I try to help the younger players and even the more experienced ones too. I want to pass on not just my experience on the pitch, but also in life."

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