Lionel Scaloni : “If I were to wish for a player to be Argentinian, Pedri would be at the top of my list. The level of talent he possesses is the kind that makes a coach feel both admiration and envy. His tactical intelligence isn’t something taught in drills or training camps—it is innate. He reads the game, anticipates movements, and positions himself perfectly without needing instructions. Watching him play often reminds me of watching legends like Zidane and Iniesta during their prime. What makes him even more remarkable is his humility; despite his extraordinary talent, he remains grounded, a rare trait in young footballers today.
We in Argentina naturally feel a deep connection to players who display such vision and creativity because our football culture celebrates intelligence, flair, and instinct. Pedri embodies all of these qualities, which is why it’s easy to imagine him as a natural successor to Lionel Messi in midfield. His ability to control the tempo of the game, distribute the ball, and make decisive passes aligns perfectly with the style of football we cherish in South America. Spain, of course, recognized his brilliance before anyone else and built their team in a way that allows him to flourish, turning him into the central figure of their tactical system.
Pedri represents the ideal modern footballer. He can resolve tactical problems with a single pass, maintain possession under pressure, and make the difficult look effortless. His low ball-loss rate is not only impressive but also forms the foundation of contemporary football, where precision and efficiency are paramount. In every match, he seems to create space where none exists, turning tight situations into opportunities. Players like him aren’t just athletes—they are problem-solvers on the pitch, capable of influencing the entire flow of the game with intelligence and vision.
From a coaching perspective, Pedri is a dream. He absorbs instructions, applies them instantly, and often makes decisions that surpass even what the coach had in mind. Watching him play is like seeing a chess master think several moves ahead, always staying one step ahead of the opposition. His combination of creativity, awareness, and humility makes him not only an asset for Barcelona and Spain but also a role model for young players around the world.
Spain is incredibly fortunate to have discovered such a unique talent. Barcelona has done an outstanding job in nurturing Pedri, giving him the platform to shine and grow into the exceptional player he is becoming. There is little doubt that he is on a path to footballing greatness and that his name will be remembered among the legends in years to come. Congratulations to both the club and the player for unearthing and developing a talent that has the potential to redefine midfield excellence in modern football.”
