Pedri Gonzalez is not hiding from the criticism. The Barcelona midfielder, who came into this World Cup as one of the most celebrated playmakers on the planet, knows his performances so far haven’t matched the reputation.
Speaking ahead of Spain’s quarterfinal matchup with Belgium, Pedri owned up to his struggles without making excuses. His last game, a Portugal match where he looked a step slow and a beat off, drew some of the loudest criticism he’s faced in his young career.
“Yes. I consider myself an important player for the team,” Pedri told SPORT. “It’s true that personally, the last game was not good, but I know I can improve and do much better. The good thing about football is that you immediately have another chance.”
He admitted the online noise reached him. But he doesn’t sound shaken by it.
“Yes, they have reached me, but I am aware of what I do. I know when I play well and when I play badly, I don’t need anyone to tell me. I think it wasn’t one of my best games of the season or my career. You have to be self-critical and I am convinced that in the next game I will do better.”
That next chance comes against a dangerous Belgium side. And Pedri was asked if maybe the problem is that his role with Spain is different from what he does at Barcelona.
“There are always nuances, depending on the coach and teammates,” he said. “Rodri, for example, is a much more positional player, while with Frenkie de Jong, the midfield is more dynamic. They are two world-class football players and you have to adapt.”
Spain’s favorites tag and Ferran’s spark
Despite the uneven play, Pedri still believes Spain can win the whole thing. They haven’t conceded a goal yet. That counts for something.
“Yes. From the beginning, we said that we were coming to win it. They pointed us out as favorites and we had no problem accepting it. We are aware that we are doing very well, but from now on no one is going to give us anything. We have shown it. We haven’t conceded any goals yet and we are a very reliable team. We all work for the team, no one stops running and that makes us a big family. We have to keep it up.”
He specifically credited Ferran Torres for changing the game off the bench against Portugal. Ferran’s impact, Pedri said, was immediate. And he mentioned Mikel Oyarzabal’s nose for goal as a weapon Spain can lean on in tight knockout games.
Julian Alvarez and Real Madrid’s spending spree
Pedri was also asked about Julian Alvarez, the Manchester City striker who has been linked with a move to Barcelona. His answer was short and direct.
“Of course. Who doesn’t like it? He is a world-class player. We’ll see what happens with his future.”
That’s not a scoop. But it’s not a denial either.
Then came the Real Madrid question. Their rivals have been on a signing spree after two seasons without a major trophy. Does that scare him?
“No. After two years without winning, it is normal that they want to strengthen themselves and try to change things. I see it totally logical that they want to strengthen themselves and try to change things.”
Pedri didn’t sound worried. But the next few games will tell us whether Spain’s most gifted midfielder can find his best form when it matters most. Belgium won’t give him extra time to figure it out.
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