Dani Olmo in awe of Barcelona midfield maestro – ‘Puts everything on a platter for you’ | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo reflected on the strong sense of unity within the Spanish national team that triumphed in the European Championship.

He also drew comparisons to the camaraderie within Hansi Flick’s Barcelona squad, which is determined to secure a historic treble this season.

He highlighted how the national team functioned as a single unit, with every player sharing a bond both on and off the pitch.

“It happened in the concentration, off the field, because we were a team, there were no groups in the national team. We were one in which we were all friends and we all went together,” he said as quoted by SPORT.

Pedri’s influence

Olmo says playing alongside Pedri is very easy. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Olmo particularly praised Pedri for his tactical intelligence and ability to make the game easier for those around him. Playing alongside him is seamless due to his technical skills and vision.

The understanding between them on the pitch allows them to anticipate each other’s moves naturally.

“There is a teammate who understands tactics of the game especially well: “Pedri. It’s very easy to play next to him, in addition to the quality he has, he puts everything on a platter for you.”

If one finds himself in a tight spot, the other is always available as an option, ensuring smooth gameplay and fluid movement across the field.

“I always tell him: ‘If I have a problem, I’ll give it to you’. And he tells me the same thing: ‘I turn around and give it to you and you do the rest.’

“So we spend it almost in a loop. We have that feeling, and on the pitch too, so he goes out on his own,” he explained.

On Lamine Yamal

Olmo also praised Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

When it comes to goal-scoring, Olmo admitted that finding the back of the net is one of the toughest aspects of the game.

However, he could not hide his admiration for Lamine Yamal, whose immense talent continues to impress teammates and opponents alike.

“We freak out a lot with him, he is another level, he is unique. But he must continue as he has done so far because he is very young.”

Olmo acknowledged his potential but also emphasised the importance of remaining grounded. With the right mindset and continuous hard work, Yamal has a bright future ahead of him.

“From what he has achieved to what awaits him, he has a lot left. He has to keep his feet on the ground and keep working.”

On returning to Barcelona

Dani Olmo also reflected on his return to Barcelona. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

For Olmo, playing for Barcelona is more than just a career move—it is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. When the club’s interest became serious, he knew instantly that he wanted to be part of the project.

“I remember perfectly, my father called me and told me he was serious. I had already seen that they were interested, in what came out every summer, but I didn’t give it importance as in that one, I felt it was different.”

While other clubs were also keen on signing him, there was no doubt in his mind that Barcelona was the place for him.

Having grown up with a deep connection to the club, he now finds himself in the best phase of his career, relishing every moment of representing the team he has always considered home.

“There were other teams interested, but Barça is my home and it was clear to me. It was my dream to be where I am now. That’s why I’m in the best moment of my life,” he added.