La Liga icon explains why Barcelona maestro is among world’s best: ‘I’m a huge fan’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s identity has always revolved around technical excellence in midfield, and few players understand that better than Santi Cazorla. 

The Spanish icon, now continuing his journey with Real Oviedo, recently opened up in an interview with SPORT, reflecting on Barça’s playing style, his admiration for Pedri, and the transfer that never happened.

Cazorla’s connection to Barcelona has long been a topic of debate among fans. 

Given his technical quality, vision, and ability to control tempo, many believed he would have been a perfect fit for the Blaugrana system during his prime. 

Now, years later, the veteran midfielder has finally addressed that story with complete honesty.

Starting with Pedri

Before diving into his own story, Cazorla was asked about Barcelona’s current midfield star Pedri, particularly after a social media moment where he referred to the youngster as a “genius.” 

Having played alongside legends like Xavi and Andres Iniesta, Cazorla’s opinion carries serious weight, and he did not hold back in his praise.

“He’s already one of the best in the world at that age. He’s a unique player, one we all enjoy watching every time he plays. 

“I think Barcelona really notices it when Pedri isn’t there. 

“They have some great players in that position, but I think Pedri brings a different touch to the team, and above all, he seems like a very, very down-to-earth, normal guy, and I really like that too. 

“I think the more normal someone is, the better a player they are. I’m a huge fan of Pedri, and that’s why I asked him for his jersey.”

Focus on Pedri rather than Lamine

Cazorla has nothing but praise for Pedri. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Naturally, the conversation then shifted towards another rising Barcelona star, Lamine Yamal. 

While acknowledging the youngster’s exceptional ability, Cazorla explained why Pedri resonates more with him on a personal level.

“Well, yes, because of the position he plays. It’s the position I’ve always played. 

“I love watching Lamine; he’s a unique and standout player in his position, but since I’ve played a bit in Pedri’s position, I have a bit more admiration for him because of that, not for any other reason.”

A Barcelona-esque player

Lastly, the most revealing part of the interview came when Cazorla addressed the long-standing question – why he never played for Barcelona. 

With his style seemingly tailor-made for the club, many expected at least some level of interest during his peak years.

“Given my style and Barcelona’s, I think I’m a player who’s better suited to playing for Barça than for other clubs. 

“I never had the opportunity or received any interest, and it’s clear that I have many friends and role models who have been very important there and in my career, like Iniesta, Xavi, Busquets, and Fabregas. 

“Football dictates which clubs you play for and which you don’t, but well, it’s true that it’s a club that has always appealed to me because of the way they play,” he concluded.