Paul Scholes and Jack Grealish led the praise for Pedri on Thursday after the midfielder helped Barcelona kick off their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win against Newcastle United.
Marcus Rashford took the headlines with a stunning brace on his return to England, but Pedri also dazzled in the middle of the park alongside Frenkie de Jong.
“My new favourite footballer,” former Manchester United midfielder Scholes posted on Instagram alongside a photo of the Spain international.
Grealish, on loan at Everton from Manchester City said on his stories: “Pedri and De Jong are a joy to watch.”
Pedri struggled with injuries earlier in his career, but the 22-year-old has remained fit and has excelled in a deeper midfield role since Hansi Flick took charge in the summer of 2024.
As Barça clocked up 63.8% possession at St James’ Park, he had more touches (113) and attempted more passes (93 with a 91.4% completion rate) than any other player on the pitch.
Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon Praises Barcelona’s Midfield Mastery after Champions League Clash
Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon lauded Barcelona’s ball retention and midfield fluidity following their Champions league match, stating it surpassed anything he’s experienced in the Manchester City, Liverpool,Chelsea, and Arsenal. However, he emphasized that Barcelona’s passing, movement, and combination play presented a unique challenge. “It made it really hard for us to press – and it’s not easy coming hear and doing that,” he said. “We press with intensity, we’re very physical, but to be fair to them, they did really well.”
Barcelona’s midfield maestro, Pedri, played a key role in their success. Last season, Pedri made 59 appearances as Barça secured victories in /name/ESP.COPA_DEL_REY”>Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa. They fell short in the Champions League, losing to /id/46310805/barcelona-psg-olympic-stadium-amid-camp-nou-uncertainty”>Barça-PSG at Olympic Stadium amid camp Nou chaos
* Rashford stars as Yamal’s deputy in win at Newcastle