Since joining Barcelona, Pedri has established himself as one of the top midfielders in the world, controlling play from the middle of the park in a variety of roles. The Spaniard has improved as a player at crunch time, as evidenced by his numerous game-winning goals last season.
Pedri, who is now out due to injury, spoke with ESPN to assemble his “Ultimate Barcelona XI,” which featured five players he has shared the field with over the course of the past three seasons at the club.
Defence
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been with Barcelona since 2014, was chosen by Pedri to play in goal. The German goalkeeper had an outstanding 2022–23 season, finishing as one of the best in Europe, if not the best.
Pedri chose Carles Puyol, a legendary captain, for the right-back position. Even though it wasn’t the Spaniard’s first choice, he began his career at Barcelona there and played there frequently throughout his time there.
Gerard Pique and Rafa Marquez were Pedri’s choice for the central defensive pairing, and Jordi Alba was selected for the left back position to complete the back four.
Midfield
Before making his selection, Pedri commented, “The midfield is obvious.” Unsurprisingly, he chose the renowned trio of Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta, and Xavi.
The Golden Boy winner spent three seasons playing with Busquets, is being coached by Xavi, and has always looked up to Iniesta as his hero.
Attack
Pedri’s first choice for the front-three was Lionel Messi. Together, they had a fantastic season and forged an unbreakable bond on the field. The Argentine is also without a doubt Barcelona’s all-time greatest player.
special pair. (Image credit: AFP/LLUIS GENE via Getty Images))
The next choice was left flank Ronaldinho, and one of the most prolific goal scorers in club history Luis Suarez completed the front line.
The Uruguayan went for Atletico Madrid the same year Pedri arrived, so they were never teammates on the field, but he is unquestionably one of the best strikers to ever play the game.
Pedri’s Best Barça Team:
Suarez, Messi, Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Busquets “Xavi Alba” Marquez, Pique, and Puyol ter Stegen