'It got me going' - Lamine Yamal clarifies 'speak now' jibe aimed at Adrien Rabiot during Euro 2024 ahead of Nations League rematch

Last year, Spanish superstar Yamal set his mark on the European Championship as La Roja won the tournament with a final win against England. The 18-year-old had also made a lot of waves on social media after he rose to the occasion with a fantastic showing in the semi-final against France. Rabiot criticised the Barcelona teenager ahead of the tie, and Yamal responded with his famous 'speak now' jibe.

Spain and France are set to go head-to-head in yet another semi-final later this week, this time in the Nations League. As they prepare to face each other, Yamal has now explained the reasoning behind his jibe at the former Paris Saint-Germain star.

Speaking to COPE, Yamal said: "My friends send me stuff before matches - good or bad - because they know it motivates me.

"Before that game, they reminded me what Rabiot said. It got me going."

The 17-year-old is looking to win his fifth official title over the last 12 months as Spain look to defend their Nations League title. La Roja are set to take on Didier Deschamps' France on Thursday, June 5, to book a slot in the final against Portugal.