‘I have nothing against him’… Pedri opens up on his relationship with former Barcelona coach amid reports of rift | OneFootball

Several players in this FC Barcelona team can lay claim to be its most important component. The names that most readily come are the three forwards, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha, as they have been contributing the most to goal creation and scoring.

However, another player who does not always get on the scoresheet but still proves how integral he is to the team with every game is the midfielder Pedri. The Canarian has been playing at a very high level ever since his arrival from Las Palmas, but this season, he has finally overcome his physical problems and is truly making a difference for the Blaugrana team.

In addition to being a great player, the Canary Islander also has a highly likeable character, which has helped him become a fan favourite since his arrival at the Catalan club. However, his career at Barcelona has also not been entirely free from controversy.

One such point of controversy has been his relationship with his previous coach, Xavi Hernandez, as there were some comments from him after the former midfielder’s departure that the media interpreted as veiled barbs at him.

However, as Mundo Deportivo has reported, the Barcelona midfielder appeared in a recent interview and ensured that he has a good relationship with Xavi:

“No one spoke to me about wanting to sell me. I was clear that the injury situation was temporary and that I wanted to stay. I have a good relationship with Xavi. People always say that I take jabs at him in the press, but that’s not true. I have nothing against him.”

Pedri went on to explain his praise for Hansi Flick is not to meant to criticize Xavi’s work:

“When you say that we train differently now, everyone thinks it’s to undermine or criticize Xavi’s work, but that’s not the case. Right now, the team is flying, pressing from the front line for 90 minutes, and Flick has brought that—that’s what has changed.”

The Barcelona midfielder went on to highlight the two sides of Hansi Flick’s personality:

“He is a coach who, when it’s time to be serious, like a good German, is quite serious, but when it’s time to have fun and joke around, I think he’s the first one to do so.”

This explanation from Pedri was a long way coming, as despite his shortcomings as a coach, Xavi Hernandez still remains one of the biggest legends of FC Barcelona. Hopefully, Pedri will go on to have a career like him at the Blaugrana club, and remain on good terms with him going forward as well.