Real Madrid icon names one Barcelona star he would sign for the club – ‘Has the essence of Madrid’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid forward Ivan Zamorano’s recent comments have sparked plenty of discussion — and for once, they place Barcelona’s stars in a flattering light.

Speaking on El Cafelito de Josep Pedrerol, the former-Chilean striker was asked which current Barcelona player he would hypothetically bring to Real Madrid. 

Without hesitation, Zamorano named Pedri, praising the young midfielder’s personality, humility, and footballing intelligence.

“I would sign Pedri, who is a star and a phenomenon… and without saying a word,” Zamorano explained. 

“He’s humble, unassuming, and speaks just enough. Pedri has the essence, the soul, of Real Madrid.”

Even though he compared Pedri to what he believes defines a Madrid player, his praise highlights the level of respect the 22-year-old commands across Spanish football. 

No kind words for Lamine Yamal

Interestingly, Zamorano also brought up Lamine Yamal, drawing a contrast between the two prodigies. 

Zamorano would sign Pedri for Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While he acknowledged Yamal’s immense talent, he stopped short of naming him as an ideal signing for Madrid. 

“I would not sign Lamine Yamal for Real Madrid. He is a star, but he is not the essence or soul of what a Madrid player is,” he said.

He even revisited the young winger’s pre-Clasico comments, reminding that “Real Madrid is a team with class and culture, and the players who play for Madrid have to represent that.” 

Still, his advice to Barcelona was revealingly positive. 

“They have to try to guide Lamine Yamal. That way, he will be a great player. Players who leave a legacy are made of different stuff.”

While the intent behind his comments was to differentiate between the two players, Zamorano ultimately underlined how Barcelona possess two generational talents, each representing a different aspect of the club’s identity.