Pedri says Messi is why he has followed Argentina
Pedri said Argentina has a special place in his heart because of Lionel Messi and that he backed the team whenever Spain exited a tournament. The midfielder, who won the World Cup with Spain in a 1-0 final against Argentina, said his one year alongside Messi at Barcelona felt too short. He described Messi as the best player he has seen.
Pedri, a World Cup winner with Spain, spoke before El Clásico about his long-standing affection for Argentina. He explained that whenever Spain were eliminated from tournaments, he would switch his support to the South American side, citing Lionel Messi as the reason.
The two were Barcelona teammates for one season, a period Pedri feels ended too soon. He called Messi the finest player he has watched and noted Messi’s record as El Clásico’s all-time leading scorer. Barcelona face Real Madrid on Sunday in a league match with significant early-season stakes.
Pedri’s comments may resonate with fans who follow multiple national teams or admire Messi, softening rivalries and highlighting cross-border football loyalties. For Barcelona supporters, his praise could reinforce Messi’s legacy and stir nostalgia. Young midfielders may see a model of humility and admiration for a former teammate. The remarks are unlikely to alter competitive stakes but could shape fan conversation around loyalty, identity, and sportsmanship.