Pedri talks Koeman, Xavi, Flick, De Jong, Eric, Lamine, Ballon d’Or, Champions League dream | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Pedri continues to work his way back to full fitness after missing the club’s last three fixtures through injury. 

The talented Spaniard has been sidelined for weeks, though there is cautious optimism within the club that he could return shortly after the international break. 

A comeback against Athletic Club remains possible, but the more realistic target appears to be Real Betis in early December.

Despite his absence on the pitch, Pedri remains active behind the scenes, focusing on his recovery and staying mentally sharp. 

In a recent conversation with MARCA, the 22-year-old reflected on his evolution at the club, his admiration for teammates, and his views on the managers he has worked under.

“I’ve experienced a big change since I arrived, yes. It seems like yesterday, but it’s been over five years. 

“During this time, I’ve learned a lot from my teammates and the captains I’ve had. And yes, now I feel like I’m in a leadership position within the team.”

The midfielder also spoke with emotion about his deep-rooted connection to the club. 

“When I was born, they put me in a Barça shirt. My grandfather and my father were die-hard Barça fans and they passed that on to me. 

“I’m a Barça fan who is lucky enough to play for his team. I’m living a dream and I realise that every day when I wake up.”

Thanking the coaches

Pedri has nothing but gratitude for his coaches. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Pedri did not shy away from crediting the coaches who have shaped his career. 

“I will always be grateful to Koeman because he gave me my debut, trusting me when I was a nobody. 

“Xavi helped us revive our enthusiasm, winning a league title that no one expected. He’s also a club legend who helped us a lot and put his faith in young players. 

“With Flick, we’ve taken another step forward in terms of competitiveness, trying to fight for every title. He has that German seriousness that characterises him. 

“He’s serious when he needs to be, and when it’s time to laugh, he makes us laugh a lot. He usually takes things calmly, but it’s best not to make him angry.”

On Frenkie and Eric

Discussing his on-field partnership with Frenkie de Jong, he added, “We play together much more now than before, and it shows. 

“Maybe from the outside you can’t see how good Frenkie is, but he has incredible quality and a lot of power to break through lines. 

“I’m very happy to have him by my side.”

The young midfielder also praised Eric García’s recent form, expressing personal pride in his friend’s resurgence. 

“I’m very happy because he’s a friend of mine. When we signed him, I already knew how good he was. 

“He’s one of the best centre-backs in the world at bringing the ball out and he can play at full-back, centre-back, defensive midfielder. 

“Mentally, he gives his all, he’s smart, he knows how to get himself into the ideal position. 

“There was a time when the fans lost faith in him, but now they’ve realised how good he is.”

On Lamine Yamal and Ballon d’Or

Pedri has praised Lamine Yamal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Turning his attention to Lamine Yamal, Pedri was equally complimentary of the teenage sensation. 

“Lamine is an incredible footballer. At his age, few players are capable of doing what he does. 

“He’s very mature and, even though people talk about his private life, he knows what he’s doing at all times. 

“He handles the pressure he has to endure at only 18 years of age very naturally.”

When asked about his Ballon d’Or placement, Pedri remained grounded. “Well, that’s where I finished after the voting. I accept it and I’ll try to finish higher next year.” 

Yet, he admitted that every player dreams of the accolade. “All footballers dream of winning the Ballon d’Or. Anyone who says otherwise is lying. It’s difficult, but you never know.”

Future ambitions

Finally, Pedri expressed his hunger for team glory over personal accolades. 

“I prefer a team award to an individual one. I’d rather see Barça, my team, win than receive an award myself. 

“And yes, this season is one of the ones where I see the team having the best chance in the Champions League. 

“Last year we came close to the final and this year we’ll give it our all, because it’s a competition we all want to win.”

He concluded with a touch of humour about his determination to lift the Champions League trophy. 

“I won’t shave my head because my mother won’t let me. ‘Stop doing silly things,’ she tells me (laughs). 

“I don’t know what I could promise… but what is certain is that my teammates and I will give our all to achieve it,” he noted.