FC Barcelona's 0-1 defeat against Real Sociedad came as a surprise to many. Flick's men came to Anoeta with the intention of taking all three points. However, the VAR and the lack of effectiveness ended up punishing the visitors. It is true that the Catalans didn't play their best game. Even so, everything could have changed if the referee hadn't disallowed Lewandowski's goal.
In the 12th minute, the 9 opened the scoring after a fortunate rebound that allowed him to finish just a few meters from Remiro. However, the VAR disallowed the goal for being within illegal position, although the reality is that the decision of the refereeing body was wrong. Thanks to the images that have subsequently circulated on social networks, it's clear that Lewandowski is in the correct position.
The play sparked a lot of criticism from fans and experts, who were quick to give their opinion on what happened. Flick, for example, and without wanting to get too involved, assured the media that the VAR had made a mistake. Meanwhile, Pedri sent a message that has been widely applauded .
Pedri Says What Many Think at Anoeta. Straight Knockout to Xavi Hernández: "He's A..."
The controversial VAR decision wasn't the focus of attention when Pedri, one of Barça's captains, appeared before the Movistar microphones just after the match. Although many expected him to comment on the offside, the Canary Islander surprised everyone by focusing on self-criticism.
"It was a difficult field, Real Sociedad pushed hard and we didn't take the three points. It's true that we had them, I had a clear chance, Raphinha had another... They are chances to score, so we have to learn from our mistakes and move on ," said Pedri firmly.
This way, number 8 made it clear that the defeat wasn't due to the refereeing but to a lack of efficiency. With this message, Pedri assumed collective responsibility and avoided excuses. A very different reaction to those experienced with Xavi Hernández in the past. Instead, the player used to be pointed out for resorting to excuses after losing in his previous stage in charge of the team .
Pedri's self-criticism reflects a degree of maturity and approach that is very different from previous times. Back then, the team sometimes seemed to look for culprits off the field. With the arrival of Flick, Barça has experienced a change of mentality, and Pedri's attitude gives signs that the locker room is focused and not looking for excuses.
This statement from Pedri is a clear message for both the team and Xavi Hernández. Taking responsibility and learning from mistakes is the way to move forward. That is what happens when you have the mentality of a true leader.