Pedri and Cubarsi reveal their ultimate ‘Christmas Gift’ plan for Barcelona fans | OneFootball

Barcelona are set to end 2024 with a highly-anticipated clash against Atletico Madrid.

The match, scheduled for Saturday at Montjuic, promises to be a thrilling encounter as Diego Simeone’s side arrives in impressive form, matching Barcelona on points in La Liga.

For Hansi Flick’s men, this game is not just about the result but also about regaining momentum in the league.

Pedri, one of Barcelona’s key figures and captains, sees this fixture as a perfect opportunity to bounce back after recent setbacks in La Liga.

A Christmas gift

Pedri wants to give Barcelona fans a Christmas present. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Despite the challenges, he believes the team can deliver a strong performance and make their fans proud.

“I think it’s a nice game to reverse the last results in La Liga, to overcome that slump. We want to give this Christmas gift to the fans,” he began saying as quoted by SPORT.

While the absence of Lamine Yamal will undoubtedly be felt, Pedri is confident that the squad has enough quality to handle the situation and secure a positive result.

“The loss of Lamine is important because he gives us a lot, but we have to look at the players we have. There is a squad to take the game forward.”

Facing a challenging team

Pedri knows how to challenge Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Atletico Madrid, known for their disciplined and resilient gameplay, will be a tough opponent. Simeone’s side excels in setting up a solid defensive structure and capitalising on their attacking strengths.

Barcelona will need to be sharp and focused to break down their low defensive block while keeping an eye on Atletico’s dangerous attacking players, who have been in fine form this season.

“They can play in a low block and with a defensive line that ‘Cholo’ always works very well. They have differential players and they are in a good moment. They will be a difficult opponent,” he added.

Pau Cubarsi’s take

Pau Cubarsi noted Lamine Yamal’s absense. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Young centre-back Pau Cubarsi shares Pedri’s sentiment about the importance of this game. He acknowledges the tough challenge that Atletico poses but believes the team must step up and approach the game with clear strategies and maximum effort.

“It’s always a tough game, you have to go out with very clear ideas and one hundred percent because Atlético is a great team. In the Champions League, we are doing very well, but in La Liga, we have taken a step back. It must be us.”

Like Pedri, he also highlighted Lamine’s absence as a significant blow, especially given his contributions in attack, but remains optimistic that other players in the squad can rise to the occasion.

“It’s a fundamental loss because he gives us a lot in attack, but we have other players who will do it perfectly,” he added.

The stakes are high for Barcelona, as a victory would help them reclaim their spot at the top of the table heading into the new year.