Pedri surrenders to Messi: “He sees football a little earlier than others”

In the midst of the 2026 World Cup being held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Lionel Messi remains the main protagonist. At nearly 39 years old, the captain of the Argentine National Team started the tournament impressively, scoring five goals in the first two matches and leaving everyone in awe.

One of those who did not hold back in praising the Rosario native was Pedri, the talented Spanish midfielder from Barcelona. The young midfielder, who had the chance to share a team with Messi during the 2020-21 season at the Catalan club, expressed his admiration for the magic of the Number Ten.

“I was lucky to be able to play and train with him. I enjoyed it a lot, learned a lot from him. Now I enjoy it a lot,” Pedri said in an interview.

Messi's Unique Vision

The Spaniard highlighted Messi's ability to read the game like few others. According to him, the Argentine is always one step ahead, anticipating movements and spaces that others do not see.

“Many times you watch the game on TV and if you just watch it, he is looking for where the free space is, where he can receive the ball alone. He has more quality than all the others, he sees football a bit before the others and knows where to be to score a goal,” the midfielder added.

Pedri did not hesitate to state that what Messi does at that age “only he can do.” His words reflect the respect and admiration that the Argentine star generates in the football world, even among rivals and former teammates.

During the tournament, the big stars were up to the task, but Messi stood out above the rest. His performances renewed the hopes of Argentine fans and repositioned him as one of the greatest in history.

Pedri and the Julián Álvarez Topic

In addition to talking about Messi, Pedri referred to the controversy generated by Julián Álvarez's statements, who expressed his desire to leave Atlético de Madrid and be sought after by Barcelona.

“I think a lot of things need to happen for that to happen. I don’t want to get involved in club matters or those of another player,” the Spanish midfielder clarified in statements to RTVE.

Despite the caution, Pedri did not hide his liking for the forward: “I love Julián as a player and I have always said I want the best to be at Barça. If it happens, welcome”.