Barcelona officials fear Neymar's negative influence on Lamine Yamal after scandalous birthday party

Lamine Yamal has drawn heavy criticism after reports surfaced on social media that he requested only "little people" and women with "specific breast sizes" for his birthday party.

British tabloids quickly linked this to Yamal being seen partying with former Barcelona star Neymar a few weeks prior, who is also known for his extravagant gatherings.

Reports also suggest Barcelona officials are deeply concerned about Yamal's behaviour and fear Neymar is a "bad influence" on him.

During his time at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar developed a reputation as a party animal. His former PSG teammate Ander Herrera once recounted Neymar's 28th birthday bash (made worse by occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic).

Yamal has stated multiple times that Neymar is one of his biggest footballing idols, even surpassing Messi.

British media report Yamal could face significant repercussions due to the party, as the Spanish government is seeking a hefty fine and launching an investigation into allegations he paid little people to attend.

According to Marca, Yamal could be fined around £867,000, and it's highly likely that government ministers will launch an investigation.

The birthday party, held at a country estate in Olivella, near Barcelona, attracted dozens of celebrities from sports, music, and social media. Despite the luxury and secrecy, the event drew public criticism and condemnation. Lasting all night from Saturday into Sunday, the party was shrouded in tight security and discretion.

Guests were required to surrender their cell phones, and thermal cameras were used at the entrance to prevent recording and leaks. According to some guests, the theme was "gangster." The Spanish Association of People with Achondroplasia and other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) released a statement condemning the alleged hiring of little people for the event.

The controversial celebration remains a hot topic. Spain's Ministry of Social Rights has requested the State Prosecutor's Office, the Ombudsman, and the Office for the Fight against Hate Crimes to investigate whether the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was violated during the Barcelona footballer's birthday party.

The investigation centres on the potential mocking of people with disabilities, specifically little people, at the winger's 18th birthday celebration. This was confirmed by the Director for Disability Issues, Jesús Martín, to the Spanish news agency EFE. He explained that Pablo Bustinduy's department wants to determine if any incident occurred that could constitute a violation of the aforementioned law.

This law, in effect for almost three years, prohibits performances that mock or denigrate people with disabilities, although it currently does not stipulate penalties. However, the Spanish government intends to strengthen the law. A reform, to be discussed at a meeting on Tuesday, aims to classify performances that publicly expose people with disabilities to ridicule as serious offenses.