The FC Barcelona locker room has always defended the idea that rivals must be respected. However, some of the confessions from its stars have surprised people within the club; in this case, Pedri has revealed his ideal eleven... with a surprise.
The striking thing isn't so much the line-up as the presence of several players who represent the eternal rival.
The Canary Islander is going through a great moment at Barça and has established himself as a reference both in his team and in the national squad. On Onda Cero, he was asked for his ideal historic eleven with players he has seen.
Pedri and an eleven without complexes
The first surprise comes with the decision to include three Real Madrid players in his ideal eleven. Pedri had no qualms about acknowledging that some white-clad footballers make a difference and that he, as a soccer lover, admires them.
This isn't a nod to the eternal rival nor a sign of Barça weakness. Rather, it's a show of footballing sincerity. The Canary Island midfielder knows that, internationally, some of those players are among the best in the world in their position.
A confession that breaks the mold
At Camp Nou, these words have been met with surprise. Not because anyone doubts Pedri's judgment, but because it's unusual for such a representative Barça figure to speak so clearly about Real Madrid stars.
The rivalry between both clubs usually conditions statements and gestures. However, Pedri has shown that his vision goes beyond colors. The honesty with which he spoke reinforces his image as a humble footballer, unafraid to acknowledge others' virtues.
The reaction of the Barça fans
On social media, comments quickly multiplied. Many Barça fans valued the Canary Islander's sincerity and pointed out that, after all, it's about recognizing talent. Others, however, criticized that a Barça player would so naturally praise footballers from the main rival.
In any case, the media impact has been clear. Pedri's revelation has crossed borders and is already one of the most talked-about topics in sports media in Spain and abroad.
Barça pride despite the confession
Despite this striking choice, Pedri doesn't lose sight of the fact that his heart beats for Barça. The Canary Islander has become an untouchable piece of the league and cup champion Barça, and his commitment to the club isn't in question.
What has become clear is that soccer transcends clásicos and trenches. Pedri has shown that one can be a Barça idol and, at the same time, admire Real Madrid players. An unexpected gesture that has sparked debate among fans and confirms the footballing maturity of a young man who already thinks like a veteran.
Pedri's ideal eleven
"Courtois, Carvajal, Piqué, Van Dijk, Jordi Alba, Busquets, Iniesta, Xavi, Messi, Neymar, and Cristiano Ronaldo."
Two from the current Real Madrid and another from the past. Seven from the past Barça.
Pedri also said in the same interview that "on the Ballon d'Or podium, I would put, in this order, Pedri, Dembélé, and Pedri."
He also confessed that "from the national team, I would take Rodri to Barça" and that the desired signing for Barça would be Haaland. He also explained that as a child he admired Silva.