Every year, the prestigious network Catalunya Radio awards the Kubala Trophy for the best goal of the year from Catalonia. Last year, for example, the award went to Espanyol’s Raul de Tomas for his splendid goal against Almeria.
The award has shifted camps this year, with none other than Pedri handed the trophy. The Barcelona midfielder scored a stunning goal against Galatasaray in the Europa League, faking three players before calmly slotting the ball into the goal.
Pedri spoke to Catalunya Radio after receiving the award, and was asked about his partnership with Gavi, which seems to be blooming with each passing game. The duo are often compared to Xavi and Iniesta, but the Canary Islander believes they still have to put the work in.
“Gavi and I lack a lot of work to reach the level of Xavi and Iniesta,” Pedri said.
Sergio Busquets is almost always the next name in line when speaking about Xavi-Iniesta, and naturally, Pedri was quizzed about the veteran midfielder, who seems to be on his way out of the club come summer.
Pedri did not shy away from talking about Busi’s importance to the team, saying, “I hope he continues, he is a very important player.”
“For me, Busquets is an essential player. I love playing with him. When he is not there, we notice his absence on the pitch. I hope he stays as long as possible.”
He also added his thoughts about a potential replacement, from within the squad itself: “Frenkie may be a good replacement for him. He played in that position with his national team.”
Before the World Cup kicked-off, Pedri made it clear that he wanted to face Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the final. However, that dream was not to be as Spain were knocked out by Morocco in the Round of 16.
Messi, on the other hand, did end up in the final, and lifted the trophy after a thrilling 3-3 game against France in the final.
Pedri was asked whether he sent a congratulatory message to Leo, even though his phone could explode any minute now.
“That is why I did not send it right now, because he will not be able to see it. I will wait a few days for him to see the message.”
The post Pedri talks Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Gavi, de Jong appeared first on Barca Universal.