FC Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has made the astonishing claim that midfield star and rumoured Liverpool target Pedri reminds him of Andres Iniesta.
Speaking to the press ahead of this weekend’s La Liga clash against Elche via Barca Universal, the former Spanish international said that Pedri reminds him of Iniesta, who played alongside Xavi in what many consider one of the best midfielders in football history.
Currently still playing with Vissel Kobe, Iniesta was noted for his incredible technique and agility on the ball as the midfielder won the FIFA World Cup for Spain and led Barcelona to the greatest period in their history under Pep Guardiola.
And now, with Pedri, Barcelona have a new midfield star in the teenage Spanish international, who is reportedly a target for Liverpool based on his outstanding performances for both club and country.
As reported by the Mirror, Jurgen Klopp is interested in signing the Camp Nou superstar. However, Pedri’s outrageous €1bn (£834m) release clause makes a transfer impossible for Liverpool, and based on Xavi’s recent comments, big things are in store for the midfielder.
Xavi said when asked about the Barcelona sensation: “When I see Pedri play, he reminds me of Iniesta. I’m not going to think otherwise no matter how much criticism there is.
“Surely, we have to bridge the gap because of Andres’ career, who is the greatest talent I have seen in Spanish football, but I am not afraid for Pedri.”
Pedri comparison to Barcelona legend Iniesta not too crazy
Comparing any young midfielder to a player as iconic as Iniesta is the gold standard in this era of football, and for Pedri, the praise from Xavi is not too farfetched given the youngster’s incredible achievements already.
The midfielder is a regular for Spain and is the current holder of the Golden Boy Award, and for many, Pedri is seen as the leading youngster for Barcelona in a current squad that includes the likes of Ansu Fati and Gavi.
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