Pedri names Barcelona icon the greatest ever and dreams of World Cup final reunion | OneFootball

FC Barcelona midfielder Pedri has once again paid tribute to Lionel Messi, describing the club legend as the greatest player in football history and admitting he would love to face him in the World Cup final.

Speaking to AS during Spain’s World Cup camp, Pedri was asked about the possibility of meeting Argentina in the tournament’s showpiece event. The 23-year-old did not hide his excitement at the prospect of sharing the biggest stage with his former Barcelona teammate.

Pedri and Messi spent time together at Camp Nou during the Argentine icon’s final months at the club, with the midfielder making his breakthrough alongside one of football’s greatest players.

Pedri: Messi is still the best in history

Asked whether facing Messi in the World Cup final would be a dream, Pedri replied with a smile. He said:

“That dream would be amazing because it would mean we had reached the World Cup final. That would be a very good sign.”

The Barcelona midfielder also revealed that he has been following Messi’s performances closely throughout the tournament. He continued:

“I’m enjoying watching him. I already enjoyed being with him every day in training.”

Despite Messi now being in the final years of his remarkable career, Pedri believes the Argentine continues to produce moments that very few players could ever replicate.

Pedri explained:

“What he’s doing at his age is incredible. Only someone with his quality can do these things.”

Pedri ended his tribute with the highest possible praise for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, saying:

“For me, he is the best player in history.”

For Barcelona supporters, Pedri’s admiration comes as no surprise. The Spain international has often spoken about the influence Messi had during his early days with the first team.

Although they spent just one season together, Pedri and Messi formed an enviable partnership with an understanding that looked as though it was meant to last for more than a season.

It remains one of football’s great what-ifs: the magic the duo could have produced had they played together longer. It remains to be seen whether the two Barcelona icons meet in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.