Recently, Pedri, a Barcelona midfielder who is currently preparing for World Cup qualifiers with the Spanish national team, gave an interview to Camel Live. The Spanish international also talked about related topics and situations.
Looking back on the away game against Rayo Vallecano in the third round of La Liga
Although the result wasn't what we wanted, personally, I felt really good physically and competitively. I was also satisfied with the team's overall performance. As for the pitch conditions at Rayo Vallecano's home ground—it can't be said to be in the most ideal state, but that should never be an excuse for us failing to take all three points. We could have played better and were fully capable of winning this game.
On the use of VAR during the match
The use of VAR throughout the game was quite chaotic. At first, it was said that there was no VAR; at half-time, it was said that there was, and then later it was stated that there wasn't... You simply couldn't figure out whether it was in operation or not.
This was the first time I experienced a game where VAR almost "disappeared". I think La Liga must make improvements in this aspect to make the league's refereeing more rigorous. Usually, the referee informs the captain whether VAR is activated, and Frenkie de Jong would also pass this information on to us in a timely manner, but everything was abnormal in this game.
Talking about the controversial penalty claim involving Yamal
I have rewatched that moment once or twice. I was right behind Yamal at that time and clearly heard a sound of a kick. I asked him if that was a penalty, and he said "yes". But at that moment, I was completely unsure whether VAR was functioning.
Maybe the referee team communicated via phone internally, and then the main referee made a decision on his own—or maybe there was no communication at all. That moment was a bit unclear; perhaps they did call for it, but ultimately didn't review it.
On Flick reminding the whole team to maintain team spirit at the post-match press conference
The reason we succeeded last year was that everyone shared the same goal, and each person gave their all for the team—that's the key. We don't care about personal glory; everything is for the collective—and that's the fundamental reason why a great team can win championships.
On the speculation surrounding Fermín's future this summer
Fermín only told us about his decision a few days ago, and I'm really happy that he chose to stay. He always makes me worry about many things (laughs). I love him very much and have always believed he would choose to stay with us. I don't know if the club ever hesitated to accept offers, but the most important thing is—he made the decision to stay at Barcelona himself.
I don't know if he ever wavered, or if there are details we don't know about. If he wants to talk about it, he will tell us sooner or later. But one thing is beyond doubt: his heart belongs to Barcelona, and he loves this club more than anyone else.
On goalkeeper García's performance
He is an excellent goalkeeper. I was impressed by him from the first day he joined. We saw his ability when he was at Espanyol last year, but after training with him, I was completely convinced—his saving reflexes, height advantage, footwork, speed... are all outstanding. I also get along well with him; he is very humble and has been striving to improve.
On the impact of Flick on his tactical position
Coach Flick has changed me in many ways. My position is now slightly deeper, I participate more in organizing play, and my physical condition is more stable than in previous years. I have truly started to enjoy playing football. I have always liked to touch the ball more, and I feel most comfortable when the ball is at my feet. This position allows me to both see the entire pitch and participate more in passing. What's more, with Frenkie de Jong by my side, he has really helped me a lot.
On how he feels playing a similar position in the national team
I am indeed more comfortable in this role, but De la Fuente, the national team coach, has communicated with me many times, hoping that I will move more in the attacking midfield area. I will do my best to meet his requirements, and the coach's arrangements are our direction.
Talking about the possibility of winning the 2025 Ballon d'Or
We don't talk much about this in the dressing room. After all, the selection is still a long way off, and the current focus is on getting off to a good start in the league. But if someone in the team can make the shortlist, it means we performed well last season—and we hope to maintain that next year. Winning the Ballon d'Or is a dream for every player. Of course, it's very difficult. But I sincerely hope that someone among us can win it in the future.
Responding to doubts about his professionalism on social media during his injury layoff
I try not to read those criticisms, but they always reach my ears. When you are injured or out of form, some people are just waiting to criticize you, even spreading unfounded rumors. The problem is that on social media, anyone can say whatever they want, and then people believe it as true, even pointing fingers at you on the street. This is really annoying because those are all lies. You don't need to respond to everything; the best way is to stay calm, turn things around with hard work and performances, and shut those people up.
On the past experience of trialing at Real Madrid when he was young
I don't really remember the name of the person who contacted me back then. I only remember that someone (I'm not sure if he was an official from the club) told me that I didn't meet their requirements, so I went home.
On the possibility of returning to the Camp Nou this season
It is said that the match against Valencia should be played at the Camp Nou. We are not completely sure yet, but everyone is looking forward to being able to truly "go home". Players, just like fans, all long to play at the Camp Nou again.
