Barcelona face Benfica on Wednesday in the Champions League last 16 first leg, with their status as one of Europe’s elite clubs firmly restored. A key catalyst in their resurgence has been midfield maestro Pedri Gonzalez, whose technical brilliance and vision have propelled the Catalan giants to new heights under Hansi Flick.
Hailed as the most entertaining team in this season’s competition, Barcelona have been an attacking force to reckon with, netting 28 goals in eight group-stage matches. Despite finishing second behind Liverpool, whose tally was 17, their goal-scoring prowess was evident, outscoring Borussia Dortmund, the next highest, who managed 22.
One of their most memorable performances came against Benfica in January when they staged a thrilling 5-4 comeback victory in Lisbon to secure their place in the knockout rounds. That victory highlighted their resilience and attacking dynamism, hallmarks of Flick’s philosophy.
Pedri: The Engine of Barcelona’s Revival
Pedri’s consistent brilliance has been the backbone of Barcelona’s success this season. With the team currently topping La Liga, competing in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, and aiming for their first Champions League triumph since 2015, the 22-year-old midfielder has been instrumental in every competition.
“I can’t describe Pedri, he’s incredible,” Flick said last week, acknowledging his immense influence on the squad.
The young Spaniard burst onto the scene during the 2020-21 season, starring for both Barcelona and Spain at Euro 2020, playing an exhausting 73 matches across club and international duty. However, the excessive workload took a toll, and injuries hindered his progress over the following seasons.
A specialized study of his genetics last year led to a tailored fitness plan designed to optimize his endurance and minimize injuries. The results have been staggering, with Pedri featuring in 39 matches this season across all competitions—more than in any of his previous three campaigns.
His statistics—five goals and six assists—may seem modest, but numbers alone do not define his impact. His vision, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of the game have made him an irreplaceable figure in Barcelona’s midfield.
‘Infinite’ Potential
Pedri also played a crucial role in Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, demonstrating his ability on the grandest stage before a knee sprain in the quarter-finals prematurely ended his tournament.
Spain’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, believes Pedri’s potential knows no bounds.
“Pedri had to find himself. We don’t even know what his best version is because he’s so good—he is infinite,” De la Fuente remarked.
Under Flick, Pedri has been deployed in a slightly deeper role compared to his national team position. Typically playing behind an attacking midfielder—often Dani Olmo or Gavi—he has more touches of the ball, dictating play and growing into one of the team’s leaders, a role Flick has encouraged him to embrace.
His leadership qualities were on full display in a hard-fought 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in December. Despite the defeat, Flick was full of praise for Pedri.
“The way he played was incredible—that’s how I like to see him, guiding the team,” said the German coach.
Committing to Barcelona’s Future
Pedri solidified his commitment to Barcelona by signing a new contract in January that extends his stay at the club until 2030. The extension was met with widespread celebration among fans and the club’s management.
“To prolong this dream is the best thing that’s happened to me in a long time,” Pedri shared. “It’s been a while since I felt this good. I’m enjoying football, which is what I love most.”
Flick was equally thrilled by the deal.
“You cannot compare him—he’s an unbelievable player. He enjoys playing football, getting the ball, and it’s really great to see… When he’s under pressure, he wants the ball, and he helps the team a lot. I’m very happy that he’s here for a long time.”
While the likes of teenager Lamine Yamal, prolific goal-scorer Robert Lewandowski, and the ever-dangerous Raphinha often receive the plaudits, it is Pedri who provides the foundation for their attacking brilliance. His ability to control midfield, link up play, and dictate the tempo allows his teammates to shine.
In the dramatic 5-4 victory over Benfica, Pedri once again played a decisive role. His pinpoint cross was headed home by Eric Garcia to level the game at 4-4 before Raphinha’s late winner sealed the triumph.
The Key to Stopping Barcelona
For Benfica, nullifying Pedri’s influence will be crucial if they are to stand any chance of progressing to the quarter-finals. The Portuguese side will need to find a way to disrupt his rhythm and limit his time on the ball—no easy feat considering his composure under pressure.
With Barcelona riding high and Pedri in the form of his life, the Catalans will enter Wednesday’s clash with supreme confidence. If the young maestro continues his stellar performances, Benfica will have their work cut out trying to contain one of football’s brightest talents.