‘You’re a monster’ – Inter Milan mainstay pays tribute to Barcelona wonderkid | OneFootball

Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni has praised Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal following their Champions League semi-final clash, calling the young star “a monster” in a message posted on social media.

Despite Barcelona’s elimination, Lamine was one of the standout performers across both legs of the semi-finals, earning widespread admiration – including from his opponents.

Bastoni, celebrating Inter’s qualification for the Champions League final, shared an emotional message on Instagram in which he highlighted the talent of the 17-year-old Barça winger.

“Only now I’m starting to realize what an incredible feat we pulled off on Tuesday. The effort we left on that pitch was massive – and it was all repaid, and more, by the unforgettable energy of our fans,” Bastoni wrote.

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“I’m grateful to every single teammate: the spirit, the hunger, the heart. Fighting by your side is what makes every sacrifice since we were kids worth it.”

Praising Barcelona and Lamine, he added: “Respect to our opponents – they showed incredible strength and heart.

“And special mention to a terrifyingly good kid: Lamine Yamal, you’re a monster.”

In a further sign of admiration, Bastoni asked Lamine Yamal for his shirt at the end of the match in Milan and wore it during Inter’s post-match celebrations on the pitch.

While Bastoni struggled at times with Lamine’s dribbling and pace, the Italian defender still delivered an excellent performance in the second leg, to limit the Barcelona winger’s threat as Inter secured a 4-3 win after extra time.