Barcelona put on a remarkable display in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Benfica, securing a decisive 3-1 victory. This win guaranteed their place in the quarter-finals, where they will face either Lille or Borussia Dortmund. The match highlighted the depth and quality of the Catalan squad, with standout performances from key players like Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri, all of whom played crucial roles in the win.
After the match, Barcelona midfielder Gavi made a surprising statement regarding the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. He openly expressed his belief that his teammate Pedri is the most deserving candidate for the honor this season, ranking him above Raphinha and Yamal despite their own strong performances.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Gavi declared, “Pedri is the best player in the world, and without a doubt, he deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone.” He emphasized that Pedri has been instrumental in Barcelona’s success, highlighting his consistency, impressive ball control, ability to perform under pressure, and skill in winning back possession. Gavi also credited Pedri’s playmaking abilities, noting his crucial assists that have contributed to the team’s victories.
However, Gavi’s comments have reportedly caused some tension within the squad, with players like Raphinha and Yamal possibly feeling overlooked in the Ballon d’Or conversation. To address the situation, Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, stepped in to maintain unity, reminding the team to prioritize collective success over individual recognition, reassuring them that personal achievements would be celebrated at the right time.
