Former Real Madrid midfielder says 22-year-old is a bigger asset to Barcelona than star forwards
Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has heaped praise on Barcelona midfielder Pedri, saying that the 22-year-old is the world’s best midfielder and more important to his team than any one of their highly-rated forwards.
“For me, a player like Pedri is more important than Lamine Yamal, Raphinha or Lewandowski,” said Kroos on his podcast Einfach mal Luppen. They may decide the results of matches, but to do that, Pedri is currently the best player in the world in his position.”
“He’s a player you will miss when he’s not playing, whoever you are playing against. He doesn’t just score goals or provide assists, he offers solutions.”
Pedri’s performance this season under coach Hansi Flick has been remarkable. He has made 54 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing seven assists. His vision on the field and ability to control the game’s tempo have been crucial as Barcelona continue to pursue a treble this season, and the Spain international has expressed his interest in winning the Ballon d’Or.
Pedri and his teammates have a stern test ahead of them, as Barcelona face Inter Milan at the San Siro, one of the most formidable venues in Champions League history, in the second leg of their semi-final tie.
After that fixture, they head into another all-important tie, hosting Real Madrid in Montjuic for what could be a title decider. If Barcelona win, they can extend their lead over their rivals to seven points. If Los Blancos win, they can close the gap to a single point with three matches left to play. Pedri’s form will be pivotal if Barcelona are to come out on top in either of these crucial games.
Kroos, who has faced off against Pedri in midfield in the El Clasico, recalled some of his own challenges against the Spaniard.
“I experienced it myself, once especially. He demolished us [Madrid] at home. Once or twice I thought I could get to him, because he doesn’t look so quick, but he dribbles so well and I couldn’t even stop him with a foul.
“He’s not like Messi, whose speed of movement you see. Pedri doesn’t seem so quick, but he really is.”
