“It’s a game everyone wants to play.” With that phrase, Pedri summed up his mindset ahead of Sunday’s Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu (4.15pm CET). The Canary Islander, a key figure in last season’s encounters, downplayed how both teams are coming into the match and acknowledged the team’s injury problems.

 

Past is the past

“In a Clásico, it doesn’t really matter how either team arrives" he continued. "What you’ve done in previous games counts for little.”

But Pedri does like to look back at last season’s meetings with Real Madrid, pointing out that Barça’s overall level then is the benchmark to aim for again: “I think last season we were incredible. We have to get back to that level. There’s always room for improvement, but we should remember that last year we managed to win all the Clásicos, and hopefully we can do the same this year.”

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Injuries

Pedri admitted the team has been hit hard by injuries: “Of course I’d love to have everyone available, the coach and the team would too.” Even so, he expressed total faith in his teammates, promising fans that “those of us who are fit will give everything and fight for the three points.”

Xabi Alonso

He also spoke about the opposition and noted their change of style under Xabi Alonso: “They try to keep much more possession now and, as always, they’re very dangerous up front.” Still, Pedri was clear: “We’ll try to dominate and control the game.”

Both Barça and Pedri are relishing a match that always captures the world’s attention. The team’s creative linchpin this season, Pedri is also nominated for LaLiga’s October MVP, and Sunday’s Clásico could strengthen his case for the award.

 

Força Barça