Three takeaways from Barcelona’s win over Athletic Bilbao
Pedri playing well beyond his years
You may not find his name on the scoresheet but Pedri put on a master class for Barcelona. The young Spanish midfielder gave the pass to Dembele on Luuk de Jong’s goal and time and time again he was an outlet for the back line as Barça played out from the back.
He even managed to sneak in a cheeky little nutmeg to get away from an Athletic Bilbao defender.
PEDRI SHEEEEEESH! 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/iK2z0xAKxW
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) February 27, 2022
There is a reason why he’s quickly become a staple both in the national team and at Barcelona. The 19-year-old is only in his second season as a top-flight player and has already become an undisputed starter. He’s being compared to former club legend Andres Iniesta and it’s easy to see why.
"“It’s how he understands the game, how he goes between the lines, how he goes behind the pivots. He reminds me a lot of Andres Iniesta,” said Xavi. “He’s wonderful. I haven’t seen many talents like that.” Source: Goal"
Since coming off his injury, he hasn’t lost a step. In fact, in some ways, he’s gotten better.
I love Gavi and Nico but Pedri is on another level entirely. This guy doesn’t have the potential to be world-class; he already is. He plays with the audacity of someone who doesn’t believe he has limits and the serenity of someone who’s simply enjoying himself. An amazing player.
— Alan Feehely (@azulfeehely) February 27, 2022
One of the things Xavi wanted him to improve on was his scoring. He tallied a goal against Espanyol and had a shot deflected in for a goal against Valencia.
His youthfulness and ability allows him to cover more ground and be a sort of protector for Sergio Busquets and, in turn, the defense.
Barcelona is often lambasted, and rightfully so, for their transfer business the last couple of seasons. They’ve missed more than they hit but there is no question they definitely got it right signing Pedri.