‘What he is doing is crazy’ - Magical Lionel Messi amazes Pedri as Barcelona & Spain star dreams of World Cup final reunion with former team-mate & Argentine GOAT
Barcelona star Pedri has hailed the crazy form of Lionel Messi at the 2026 World Cup while admitting he dreams of a blockbuster final showdown against the Argentine icon. The Spain international is currently preparing for a round of 16 clash against Portugal but his eyes are already drifting toward a potential reunion with the man he considers the greatest of all time.
Pedri, who forged a partnership with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner at Camp Nou, believes nobody can touch the Inter Miami superstar when it comes to historical greatness. "The things he is doing at his age can only be done with the quality he has. For me he is the best player in history," the Barcelona playmaker said.
While Spain must navigate a difficult path to the trophy with a round of 16 clash against Portugal on the horizon, Pedri is already imagining a fairytale ending to the tournament. The prospect of facing his mentor with the most prestigious trophy in sports on the line is a scenario that the 23-year-old midfielder finds irresistible. When asked if he dreams of facing Argentina in the showpiece event, the Barcelona playmaker was enthusiastic about the possibility. "That dream would be top because it would mean we are in the World Cup final. It would be a good sign," he admitted, acknowledging that such a fixture would represent the pinnacle of his career so far.
Beyond his international aspirations, Pedri also opened up about the tactical shift at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. The German coach has been credited with revitalizing the Catalan giants. "Above all he started putting me at the base of the play so that I could be in contact with the ball," Pedri explained. "Flick changed my position on the pitch and above all he transmitted to us the mentality of winning of competing. That is what he has changed and he has transformed the mentality of the team."
Before any talks of clashing against Messi can become reality, Spain must first overcome a formidable Portugal side. Pedri was full of praise for Portuguese midfielder Vitinha, ranking him among the elite bracket of modern midfielders. "Vitinha is top especially in his control of the ball and how he manages the tempo of the match. When I faced him I was surprised by how much he runs he is never still. He always gives the pass to the free teammate and as I say he is top. One of the best midfielders in the world," Pedri noted.