FC Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal denies allegations linking him to Italian model Anna Gegnoso following a wave of social media speculation.
The rumors surfaced after Spanish outlets reported that Yamal, 18, met Gegnoso during a recent trip to Milan.
Fans quickly noticed that both Yamal and his rumored girlfriend, singer Nicki Nicole, deleted photos of each other from Instagram, fueling breakup talk.
While the reports have yet to be substantiated, Yamal has called the claims “false and damaging,” urging fans not to believe “baseless gossip.”
The situation continues to evolve as international media and supporters react to the young star’s statement.
Spanish media first broke the story in early November 2025, alleging that Lamine Yamal met Anna Gegnoso at a luxury Milan hotel during a personal trip.
The rumors quickly spread through Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, amplified by fans who noted his recent online activity with Nicki Nicole.
According to Reuters, the alleged meeting coincided with the couple’s apparent social media split, prompting speculation of a breakup.
Yamal has publicly denied the affair, emphasizing that the reports are false and that his focus remains on football and his career with Barcelona.
The controversy raises questions about privacy and the challenges faced by young athletes in the digital age.
Who Is Anna Gegnoso?
Anna Gegnoso, 20, is a model and social media personality from Naples, now based in Milan.
She has collaborated with European fashion brands and built a strong following for her lifestyle and beauty content.
This is not the first time Gegnoso’s name has been connected to Yamal — earlier rumors emerged after a sighting in Barcelona last year.
However, current allegations have been more specific, drawing widespread attention across both sports and entertainment media.
Reactions and Public Response
While Lamine Yamal denies all claims, the story has sparked massive engagement online.
Supporters are divided — some defend the player’s right to privacy, while others debate the implications for his image as one of Europe’s rising football talents.
Neither Nicki Nicole nor Gegnoso has issued a detailed public response as of publication time.
Analysts warn that the spotlight could distract from Yamal’s focus ahead of Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures.
Impact on Barcelona and Upcoming Matches
Though primarily a personal matter, the controversy arrives at a delicate moment in Barcelona’s season.
Yamal has been a standout performer in recent weeks, contributing three goals and four assists in La Liga.
Club insiders suggest management is monitoring the situation but remains confident it will not affect his form or professionalism.
Barcelona faces Atletico Madrid next weekend — a crucial test that will demand full concentration from the young winger.
What’s Next
As of now, no formal investigation or club statement has been issued.
Yamal’s representatives have reaffirmed that legal action may be considered against false reports.
Fans and journalists alike will be watching closely to see how the player and the club handle ongoing media attention.
Sources
Reuters
Associated Press
ESPN
247Sports
iNews Sports Desk
