FC Barcelona, like the other elite clubs of European football, continue to maintain high standards of themselves both as a team as well as on an individual level. A pattern retained by the best of the best, even the aspiring youngsters at Barcelona are now picking up on such traits.
La Blaugrana have recently brought in polished veterans of the game to enhance the team in both quality as well as experience, with the latter a particularly useful device for the side’s up-and-coming younger talents, which includes 20-year-old former Golden Boy Award winner and Barcelona star, Pedri.
As reported by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the youngster spoke in detail regarding many topics, the most apparent of which were improving upon his physical attributes, staying injury free, and improving his goal contributions. He stated:
“Xavi has told me that I have to finish the season with more assists. Last season, I didn’t reach the challenge of 10 assists that Xavi set for me, so we’ll have to achieve this target in the current one.”
He also touched upon the changes he has made in order to improve his resistance to injuries, mentioning:
“…In the last seasons, I have been injured for a significant period of time, and I have worked hard to prevent it from happening again. Similarly, I have made some changes in my dietary habits: opting for healthier food, consuming plenty of fish, and avoiding my mother’s croquettes (jokingly)…”
Pedri also commented on the inclusion of Ilkay Gundogan in this new-look Barcelona side, stating that he considers the German to be an excellent addition, and one whom the players have followed since his time at Manchester City. He said:
“We all knew him from watching him play at City, and now I’m lucky to see him in every training session; he’s a great player.”
Barcelona now look to embark upon their very first pre-season game, set to take place against Juventus in Levi’s Stadium, situated in Santa Clara, California. The games up ahead will do much good for a Catalan outfit still looking to adjust their new signings with their pre-established players and helping them find a rhythm with each other.
