Barcelona MVP admits flaws after strong showing vs Celta Vigo: ‘We were not well-positioned’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Celta Vigo may not have been their most fluent display, but one player stood above the rest at the Spotify Camp Nou – Pedri. 

The superstar midfielder was deservedly named Man of the Match after a composed and influential performance that helped Barça maintain their grip on the La Liga title race.

In front of over 59,000 home fans, Pedri dictated the tempo, linked play seamlessly, and once again showed why he is considered the heartbeat of this Barcelona side. 

The supporters recognised his impact, chanting his name throughout the match as he controlled proceedings in midfield during a tense encounter.

Pedri’s analysis

Following the final whistle, Pedri reflected on the importance of the result, especially with Barcelona holding a nine-point lead over Real Madrid and only a handful of matches remaining in the season. 

He made it clear that, while the performance was not perfect, the outcome was what truly mattered at this stage.

“We’ve earned three hard-fought points; it’s been a very important victory,” he began saying.

Despite being the standout performer, the midfielder did not shy away from criticising the team’s display, particularly in the first half, where Barcelona struggled to assert control. 

He highlighted the tactical issues that allowed Celta Vigo to grow into the game.

Pedri was named the MVP against Celta Vigo. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“We didn’t position ourselves well, we gave away ground behind them, and Celta play very well in tight spaces. 

“I think we didn’t press properly, and we ran a lot. We wasted ground for nothing and weren’t well-positioned. 

“That needs to be sorted out for the upcoming matches and improved.”

Title race and Lamine

The Barcelona maestro also shared his opinion on the title race, admitting that Real Madrid will not make it easy for them.

“There are a lot of people who think La Liga has been decided… But no, I believe that until it becomes mathematically secured, we can’t relax.

“Real Madrid will keep putting pressure until the end, and I think we need to stay focused.” 

Notably, the match was also overshadowed by concerns over Lamine Yamal, whose injury has raised alarm across the club. 

Pedri concluded by addressing the situation with a calm and supportive message.

“I hope it’s nothing serious, that he stays calm; he’s young, he needs to recover properly and we need to cheer him on,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo