Saturday’s Copa del Rey final culminated in such mayhem that it was easy to forget the magic that opened the scoring. Indeed, Pedri’s long-range stunner into the top corner of Thibaut Courtois’ net to give Barcelona a 1-0 lead over Real Madrid was one of the best moments of his career to date.
These moments are piling up for the 22-year-old who has reached an even higher level this season. Pedri’s potential has been clear for some time, but his recent performances have demonstrated his ability as a pace-setter, a creator and the beating heart of Hansi Flick’s Treble-chasing Barca team.
There was a period not so long ago when Pedri’s development was in question. He was over-worked in his first full season at Barcelona, playing a total of 52 games in all competitions over the 2020/21 campaign. This led to injuries in the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons when Xavi Hernández essentially ran his best young player into the ground.
On his return to action, Pedri looked to have lost some of his sharpness. Some made comparisons to Ansu Fati, another prodigious La Masia talent who was never the same after a long period on the sidelines. There was no guarantee Pedri would fulfil the promise he demonstrated as a teenager.
However, Flick’s arrival at Barcelona last summer proved to be a watershed for Pedri. The former Bayern Munich boss immediately installed Pedri as the creative heart of his team. While Xavi used the youngster in an advanced position close to the opposition box, Flick saw someone who could dictate play for Barca in a deeper role.
Only Iñigo Martínez had more touches of the ball against Real Madrid in Saturday’s Copa del Rey final than Pedri despite the midfielder only playing eight minutes of extra time. The 22-year-old also played 10 passes into the final third and created three Big Chances. It was a performance that showcased everything Pedri offers, including his goal.
Many believe Pedri could offer more goal threat from midfield. He has only scored six goals in all competitions this season, a tally that pales in comparison to some of his teammates. Barcelona are the most dangerous attacking outfit in Spanish and European football right now yet Pedri isn’t all that prolific in front of goal.
Pedri is, however, the perfect Barcelona midfielder for the modern age. Initially seen as the natural successor to Andrés Iniesta, there is just as much Xavi influence in his game these days. With Sergio Busquets no longer in blaugrana, Pedri has also added some defensive qualities to his play – he is averaging 1.1 tackles and 0.9 interceptions per 90 minutes this season.
“It’s great to be recognised that you’re doing well, but I try to focus on improving,” said Pedri when asked about his development. “I’m only 22 years old and I have room to improve. In fact, the coach also tells me that in training. What could I improve? Many things… you can always lose fewer balls, you can always improve your goal tally, choose better when it’s time to speed up or calm down the game… everything can be improved.”
This season could be a special one for Barca. The Catalans have already won the Copa del Rey after overcoming Real Madrid on Saturday and hold a four-point advantage over their historic rivals at the top of LaLiga. Next Sunday’s Clásico could effectively be when Flick’s team are crowned as champions.
It’s in the Champions League, though, where Barcelona are making the most profound impact. Real Madrid have won five European titles since the Catalans last got their hands on the famous trophy, back when they had a forward line of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suárez. 10 years is a long time for a club of Barca’s stature to go without Champions League success.
Such is the attacking talent in Flick’s team, few would bet against Barcelona proving themselves as the best in Europe once again. Lamine Yamal is the best teenager in world football. Robert Lewandowski is still one of the sharpest finishers in the game while Raphinha has been so impressive this season many view him as a Ballon d’Or candidate.
Pedri, however, is the purest embodiment of Barcelona in 2025. He is a reflection of the club’s glorious past despite joining from Las Palmas rather than coming through La Masia, but also the epitome of what they have become under Flick. Pedri is the best midfielder of his generation and his performances this season prove it.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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