Exquisite Pedri at peak of powers as Barcelona visit Benfica
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If Benfica want to progress in the Champions League, then shutting down Pedri is the most pressing problem they have to solve.
PHOTO: AFP
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MADRID – Barcelona travel to Benfica on March 5 in a Champions League last-16, first-leg clash with their status as one of Europe’s elite sides restored, and midfielder Pedri playing a key role in their revival.
The five-time European champions scored 28 goals in eight group-stage matches as they finished second, behind Liverpool whose haul was 17. The Catalan side notched five of those in Lisbon against Benfica in a thrilling 5-4 comeback win in January which clinched their place in the last 16.
Pedri’s quality and consistency have underpinned Barca’s fine season to date, as they top La Liga, are in the Copa del Rey semi-finals and aiming for their first Champions League triumph since 2015.
“I can’t describe (Pedri), he’s incredible,” said coach Hansi Flick.
After a superb breakthrough season in 2020-21 in which the midfielder also shone for Spain at Euro 2020 and played 65 matches for club and country, injuries began to plague him.
A study of his genetics helped create an individual plan to improve his fitness and it is paying dividends.
Pedri has already played 39 matches this season for Barcelona across all competitions, more than in any of the three previous campaigns. Although his tally of five goals and six assists is solid but modest, his performances have been unparallelled.
The 22-year-old is enjoying the best form of his career, producing an array of superb passes in every match, as well as offering vital energy and showcasing his exquisite technical abilities.
His national team coach Luis de la Fuente also believes his potential is limitless. He said: “We don’t know what his best version is because he’s so good, he is infinite.”
Under Flick he has continued to progress, playing in a deeper role than with the national team, behind an attacking midfielder – usually Dani Olmo or Gavi.
It means he receives more of the ball and can dictate the game.
Flick hailed Pedri despite a 2-1 defeat by Atletico Madrid in December. “The way he played was incredible – that’s how I like to see him and how he guides the rest,” the German said.
“You cannot compare him, he’s an unbelievable player, he enjoys playing football, getting the ball and it’s really great to see... When he’s under pressure he wants the ball and he helps the team a lot, I’m very happy that he’s here.”
While teenager Lamine Yamal, top scorer Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha often earn the plaudits, Pedri helps create the platform for his teammates to excel.
If Benfica want to progress, then shutting him down is their most pressing problem. AFP
