Pedri talks Flick, Xavi-Iniesta comparisons, injuries, Ballon d’Or – ‘I’d rather see Lamine Yamal or Raphinha win’ | OneFootball

In an exclusive interview with TV3, Pedri reflected on his outstanding form ahead of Barcelona’s decisive Copa del Rey clash against Atletico Madrid.

The 22-year-old midfielder has become a key figure in Hansi Flick’s system, with the coach recently praising him as ‘the best in the world in his position.’

Naturally, there have been calls for Pedri to win the Ballon d’Or later this year, should Barcelona end the campaign with trophies.

However, during the interview, Pedri insisted that winning the Ballon d’Or is not a priority for him and that he would prefer to see his attacking teammates, Lamine Yamal or Raphinha, win the honour.

“The Ballon d’Or is far from my mind. Unless you’re an exception like Rodri, it’s usually won by players with great goal stats. I’d rather see Lamine Yamal or Raphinha win it – they have the numbers and make a difference. I’m happy if we win titles,” he said.

Talking about the praise he received from Hansi Flick, Pedri stated: “It’s great to receive recognition, but I try to stay focused on improving. I’m only 22, and I have a lot of room to grow. The coach tells me the same thing in training.

“What could I improve? A lot. I can lose fewer balls, score more goals, decide better when to speed up or slow down the game… There’s always room for improvement.”

Enjoying a dream season under Flick. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

After struggling with injuries and facing criticism about his lifestyle, Pedri has bounced back in style, with injury woes being firmly in the rearview mirror. Reflecting on the matter, he noted:

“I’ve been through everything. At first, it was all praise, then came the criticism, and now the praise is back. I’ve seen both sides. People said I was fragile, that I got injured too much….”

Continuing, he added: “When you’re criticized like that, it pushes you to prove people wrong. But beyond that, I just want to enjoy playing again – and now I am, after a long time without that feeling.”

While players often take the spotlight, Pedri gives full credit to Flick for transforming the team.

“Flick is responsible for everything happening here. He’s introduced a new playing style, especially in defence and pressing. He’s imposed his way of competing, and we’ve embraced it,” he said.

Pedri’s performances have drawn comparisons to Barcelona legends Xavi and Andres Iniesta, two of his childhood idols.

“It’s amazing to be compared to them. They were my heroes growing up, along with Busquets. But they defined an era and won so many titles. I still have a long way to go to be even a small part of what they were,” he stated.

Barça are still in contention for a historic treble, and Pedri knows what’s at stake heading into the final phase of the season.

“Not winning a trophy wouldn’t be a disappointment considering the journey we’ve had so far. But it would hurt,” he remarked.