Everyone at Barça was hanging on Pedri’s return. And he hasn’t disappointed. He is a shining light in the blaugrana midfield, with his daring style and youthful imagination. And he’s creating danger. In fact, he’s just become the player to create the most chances in a single game.
Stat-tastic
Barça had their work cut out to the full to get the full three points out of their visit to Alavés. Although none of the chances he created bore fruit, and he played no part in Frenkie de Jong’s goal that saved the day at Mendizorrotza, he still set a personal record of six chances set up.
Memphis was the previous leader, with five chances created in one game. The Dutchman drops to second following Pedri’s stellar performance in Vitoria. His passing brilliance, his penetrating runs, his ability to find space and so many other things on the pitch were matched by his eloquence afterwards when he dedicated the victory to the injured Ansu Fati.
Before everything else, Pedri knows that what matters most is the team: “It was worth the effort” he said on Twitter. “This win is for you Ansu."
El esfuerzo ha merecido la pena. Esta victoria es para ti @ANSUFATI 🤜🤛 pic.twitter.com/7vEPq7zjFJ
— Pedri González (@Pedri) January 23, 2022
The football world is waking up to Pedri once again after several months with the Canary Islander out through injury. “I sometimes joke with him” said Xavi in his pregame press conference. “I ask him where he came from. From what school? He is a wonderful footballer. He is our idea and model taken to excellence. It’s a delight to watch him play.”
Focused return
Having scored in the Copa del Rey last sixteen, this was his first start under Xavi, and he excelled in covering not just his zone but the whole of the midfield from wing to wing. Ever since making his return, he has been providing constant reminders of why he was one of the most talked about players of 2021.
The youngster was recognised on his contributions for both Barça and Spain by being awarded both the Golden Boy i el Trofeu Kopa.
In 2021/22 he wants, and we want, more of the same. Or even better! He’s only just coming back from a nasty injury, but so far things are looking very sweet indeed!