Barcelona’s Toilet Break Incident Revealed by Gündoğan

Former Barcelona midfielder İlkay Gündoğan has revealed a bizarre incident during a Champions League match against Porto last season, where the team briefly played with 10 men after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal left the pitch for a toilet break. The revelation came during an interview this weekend, shedding light on an unusual moment in the high-stakes game.

Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Porto in the group stage clash, but the match was not without its peculiarities. Gündoğan explained that during the first half, the team felt as though they were a man down, despite no red card being issued. The confusion was later clarified when it was discovered that Yamal had left the field to use the restroom, leaving the coaching staff unaware and unable to make a substitution.

“Last season against Porto, there was a point in the match where we felt cornered. It felt like we had one man less on the pitch,” Gündoğan said. “Later on, I realized we did have one less. Lamine had gone to the toilet during the match, and the coaching staff didn’t replace him.”

The incident highlights the growing importance of Yamal, who has quickly become a key player for Barcelona despite his young age. The 16-year-old winger has been praised for his maturity and skill, earning a regular spot in the starting lineup under then-manager Xavi Hernández.

Barcelona’s coaching staff, including Xavi, were reportedly unaware of Yamal’s absence until after the fact, leaving the team to navigate a critical period of the match with a numerical disadvantage. The situation underscores the challenges of managing young players in high-pressure environments.

Gündoğan’s revelation has sparked discussions about the need for better communication and protocols during matches, especially when dealing with younger players. The incident, while humorous in hindsight, could have had serious consequences for Barcelona’s Champions League campaign.

Yamal, who has been dubbed a “wonderkid” by fans and pundits alike, has continued to impress this season, further cementing his place in the team. His rapid rise has been a bright spot for Barcelona, which is undergoing a transitional phase following the departure of several key players.

The match against Porto ultimately ended in victory for Barcelona, but the toilet break incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football. Gündoğan’s candid account has added a unique chapter to the club’s storied history in the Champions League.