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Pedro González López (born 25 November 2002), more commonly known as Pedri, is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for La Liga club Barcelona and the Spain national team. Considered one of the best midfielders in the world, he is known for his ball control, dribbling, passing and playmaking.[2][3][4]

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Born in Bajamar, Tenerife, Canary Islands,[5] Pedri's family moved to Tegueste, a nearby town, when he was 3. Pedri joined UD Tegueste, starting as a centre-back. At 13, Pedri signed for Laguna, where he played until 2018.[6] Pedri was rejected by Real Madrid after a trial in 2018, where he was told he wasn't at their level. He was only able to train for a few days due to heavy snow, and based on those limited sessions, Real Madrid sent him home.[7][8]

Club career

[edit]

Las Palmas

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Pedri joined Las Palmas's youth setup in 2018 from Laguna.[9][10] On 15 July 2019, aged only 16, he signed a professional four-year contract with the club, being promoted to the first team by manager Pepe Mel.[11]

Pedri made his professional debut on 18 August 2019, aged only 16, by starting in a 0–1 home loss against Huesca in the Segunda División.[12] He scored his first professional goal on 19 September, with the game's only goal in a home victory over Sporting Gijón and became the youngest goalscorer in Las Palmas history at 16 years, 9 months and 23 days of age.[13][14]

Barcelona

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2019–20: Debut season

[edit]
Pedri (centre) lining up for Barcelona in 2020
Pedri dribbling with the ball

On 2 September 2019, Barcelona reached an agreement with Las Palmas for the transfer of Pedri, effective as of the following 1 July 2020. The player agreed to a two-year contract with the Catalan club, who paid €5 million for the deal, which would increase as he fulfilled various clauses in his contract.[15] Assigned to the main squad for the 2020–21 season and with the number 16 shirt,[16] Pedri made his debut on 27 September, replacing Philippe Coutinho in a 4–0 home win against Villarreal in La Liga.[17] He received his first start on 17 October in a 0–1 away loss against Getafe.[18] On 20 October, Pedri scored his first goal for the club on his UEFA Champions League debut, in a 5–1 win over Ferencváros in the group stage, after coming on as a substitute in the 61st minute for Ansu Fati.[19] On 7 November, in a 5–2 home win over Real Betis, he scored his first goal in La Liga after an assist from Sergi Roberto.[20]

2021–22: Copa del Rey title and hamstring injury

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On 6 January 2021, Pedri scored a headed goal against Athletic Bilbao and assisted Barcelona's second goal in a 3–2 win at San Mamés.[21] On 17 April, Pedri won the first trophy of his senior career after Barcelona beat Athletic 4–0 in the Copa del Rey final.[22] On 8 May, at 18 years and 164 days, Pedri made his 50th appearance for Barcelona in all competitions when he started in the 0–0 draw against Atlético Madrid at Camp Nou, thus becoming the second-youngest player to reach this milestone after Bojan Krkić, who was 18 years and 3 days when he reached 50 appearances.[23] In the middle of October 2021 Pedri signed a new contract with Barcelona which contained a record €1 billion ($1.57 billion) release clause.[24] On 22 November 2021, Pedri won the Golden Boy award presented by Tuttosport for being the best player in European football under the age of 21.[25] The following week he also received the 2021 Kopa Trophy, awarded by France Football, for being the best performing player in world football under the age of 21.[26]

On 13 February 2022, Pedri scored the fastest Derbi Barceloní goal of the 21st century, clocking in at 75 seconds in a 2–2 draw against Espanyol.[27][28] Later that year, on 14 April, Pedri picked up a hamstring injury during Barcelona's second legged quarter-final Europa League clash with Frankfurt, in which they were eliminated. Subsequently, it was announced that Pedri could miss the rest of the season.[29]

2022–23: First La Liga title

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On 28 January 2023, Pedri made his 100th appearance in all competitions in a La Liga game against Girona. He was brought on in the 26th minute for injured Ousmane Dembélé and scored the only goal in the match.[30] By the end of the 2022–23 season, he managed to achieve his first La Liga title with Barcelona under coach Xavi.[31]

2024–25: Domestic treble and contract extension

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With the arrival of new manager Hansi Flick at Barcelona in the 2024–25 season, Pedri improved upon his fitness greatly, and enjoyed a strong and largely injury-free start to the season.[32]

On 21 January 2025, he assisted Eric García for Barcelona's equalizer against Benfica to make the game 4–4, with Barcelona eventually winning the game 5–4 and securing a top 8 spot in the league phase of the Champions League.[33] Later that month, on 30 January, he extended his contract with the club until 2030.[34]

On 26 April 2025, Pedri scored the first goal in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid and helped the team to win the game 3–2. After Lamine Yamal dribbled through Madrid's defense, he played a pass to Pedri who then scored from outside of the box, curling one into the top left corner past Thibaut Courtois.

Barcelona finished the season by lifting La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de España, along with a semi-final finish in the Champions League, with Pedri featuring regularly in the team across all competitons.

2025–26 season

[edit]

On 23 August 2025, Pedri scored his first goal of the 2025–26 season in a 3–2 league victory against Levante.[35]

On 26 October 2025, Pedri was sent off in a 2–1 defeat against Real Madrid after receiving two yellow cards, marking the first red card of his senior career.[36] Three days later, Barcelona confirmed that he had suffered a tear to the distal biceps femoris muscle in his left thigh, which subsequently sidelined him. Up to that point, he had appeared in all of Barcelona’s matches during the season.[37] He returned from injury on 29 November 2025, featuring as a second half substitute for Raphinha in Barcelona's 3–1 victory over Alavés.[38]

On 13 December 2025, after starting in a 2–0 win against Osasuna, Pedri became Barcelona's youngest player to make 150 La Liga appearances, a record previously held by Lionel Messi.[39]

International career

[edit]

Youth and early senior careers

[edit]

On 21 August 2020, Pedri was called up to the Spain under-21 squad; he later made his debut on 3 September in a 1–0 away win over Macedonia in a qualifying match for the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.[40]

In March 2021, Pedri received his first call-up to the Spain senior team from coach Luis Enrique ahead of the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification.[41] He debuted the same year on 25 March against Greece.[42]

UEFA Euro 2020

[edit]

On 24 May 2021, Pedri was included in Luis Enrique's 24-man squad for UEFA Euro 2020.[43] On 14 June, he became the youngest player ever to represent Spain at the European Championships, when he started in the 0–0 draw against Sweden at the age of 18 years, 6 months, and 18 days, breaking the previous record set by Miguel Tendillo in Euro 1980.[44] On 28 June, Pedri became the youngest player to feature in a knock-out game at the European Championships when he started in the round of 16 against Croatia, aged 18 years and 215 days; however, he scored an own goal when goalkeeper Unai Simón failed to control his long pass back. Spain eventually won the match 5–3 in extra-time.[45][46] He played all but one minute of Spain's six matches, and had an important impact on Spain's run to the semifinal, where they were defeated 4–2 on penalties by eventual winners Italy following a 1–1 draw after extra-time; during the latter match, he completed 65 of the 66 passes he attempted.[47][48] For his performances, he was voted the Young Player of the Tournament,[48] and was the only Spanish player in the tournament to be named in the Team of the Tournament.[49]

2020 Summer Olympics

[edit]

On 29 June 2021, Pedri was called up to the Spain squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics.[50] The move to include Pedri in Spain's Olympic squad attracted criticism from Barcelona, with manager Ronald Koeman branding the decision to call up Pedri for two international tournaments in the same summer as "too much".[51] On 22 July, Pedri played the full 90 minutes in Spain's 0–0 opener against Egypt. The game was Pedri's 66th of the season.[52] In the final, Pedri's 73rd game of the season, Spain suffered a 2–1 loss to Brazil in extra-time.[53]

2022 FIFA World Cup

[edit]

Pedri was named in Spain's squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.[54] He started in all four of Spain's matches. Spain were knocked out by Morocco in the Round of 16 on penalties.[55]

UEFA Euro 2024

[edit]

Pedri was called up to Spain's UEFA Euro 2024 squad despite not having been featured in the national side since the World Cup due to prolonged injury issues. He scored his first senior international goals in a friendly against Northern Ireland on 8 June 2024, contributing with a brace to a 5–1 win.[56] Pedri started in Spain's opening match against Croatia, assisting the second goal in a 3–0 win to Fabián Ruiz; he also started in the following group stage match, a 1–0 win over Italy, and the round of 16 4–1 victory over Georgia. In the quarter-final clash with Germany, Pedri left the field in the eighth minute after being fouled by Toni Kroos, with what was later diagnosed as an inner ligament stretch of the knee; Dani Olmo replaced him in the match and the rest of the tournament, as Spain went on to be crowned champions.[57]

Style of play

[edit]

Pedri usually plays in a free midfield role, which allows him to roam the pitch; he likes to occupy central areas and operate between the lines, although he is also capable of moving out wide and running towards the touchline to create chances for teammates. He even drops deep to the defence to pick up the ball. He normally situates himself on either the left or right flank, or even as a number 8.[58][59][60][61] Indeed, although he initially played as a winger, he was later moved to a central midfield role, although he is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, as well as in several other offensive and midfield roles. He has also occasionally been used as a defensive midfielder and even as a centre-forward.

Pedri is considered a quick, intelligent, creative, and hard-working player, known for his excellent technical skills, dribbling, ball control, passing, awareness, and vision, as well as his ability to manage himself in tight spaces, exploit gaps, and play the final ball or penetrating passes with either foot, making him an effective playmaker.[62][25][63][64][65][66][67][68][69][70] Moreover, he is also highly regarded for his dribbling skills, his stamina, his calm composure under pressure, and his ability to play with either foot.[58] His role has been a mezzala in the Italian sports media.[71] His exceptional dribbling, ball control, and ability to navigate tight spaces makes him a joy to watch for many football fans.[72] His slight frame, qualities, position, and playing style have led him to be compared to former Barcelona players such as Xavi,[63][73] Andrés Iniesta,[74][75][76] Michael Laudrup,[76] and Lionel Messi.[70][77][78][79]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 21 January 2026[80]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League Copa del Rey Europe Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Las Palmas 2019–20 Segunda División 36 4 1 0 37 4
Barcelona 2020–21 La Liga 37 3 6 0 7[a] 1 2[b] 0 52 4
2021–22 La Liga 12 3 1 1 8[c] 1 1[b] 0 22 5
2022–23 La Liga 26 6 1 0 6[d] 0 2[b] 1 35 7
2023–24 La Liga 24 4 2 0 6[a] 0 2[b] 0 34 4
2024–25 La Liga 37 4 6 2 14[a] 0 2[b] 0 59 6
2025–26 La Liga 16 2 2 0 5[a] 0 2[b] 0 25 2
Total 152 22 18 3 46 2 11 1 227 28
Career total 188 26 19 3 46 2 11 1 264 32
  1. ^ a b c d Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  2. ^ a b c d e f Appearance(s) in Supercopa de España
  3. ^ Two appearances in UEFA Champions League, six appearances and one goal in UEFA Europa League
  4. ^ Five appearances in UEFA Champions League, one appearance in UEFA Europa League

International

[edit]
As of match played 14 October 2025[81]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Spain 2021 10 0
2022 8 0
2024 12 2
2025 8 3
Total 38 5

Spain score listed first, score column indicates score after each Pedri goal.[81]

List of international goals scored by Pedri
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition
1 8 June 2024 Estadi Mallorca Son Moix, Palma, Spain 20  Northern Ireland 1–1 5–1 Friendly
2 3–1
3 5 June 2025 MHPArena, Stuttgart, Germany 33  France 4–0 5–4 2025 UEFA Nations League Finals
4 7 September 2025 Konya Metropolitan Municipality Stadium, Konya, Turkey 36  Turkey 1–0 6–0 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification
5 6–0

Honours

[edit]

Barcelona

Spain U23

Spain

Individual

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Pedri, whose full name is Pedro González López, is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a central for FC Barcelona in La Liga and the Spain national team. Born on 25 November 2002 in Tegueste, Tenerife, he began his youth career with local clubs before joining UD Las Palmas' academy in 2018 and making his senior debut for their first in the 2019–20 season. Pedri signed with Barcelona in September 2020 at age 17, quickly establishing himself as a pivotal player known for his vision, passing accuracy, and composure under pressure, though he has faced recurrent injuries that limited his appearances in several seasons. Pedri's breakthrough came in his debut 2020–21 season with Barcelona, where he featured in 52 matches across all competitions, contributing to their Copa del Rey victory, and earned individual accolades including the Golden Boy Award and the Kopa Trophy as the world's best young player. Internationally, he represented Spain at youth levels, winning the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in 2019 and a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with the U23 team. His senior international debut occurred in March 2021, and he was named Player of the Tournament at UEFA Euro 2020 despite Spain's final loss, before participating in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. With , Pedri played a key role in their 2022–23 title win, scoring six goals that season, and continued his contributions in subsequent campaigns, helping secure additional domestic honors. In 2024, despite suffering a injury in the round of 16 match against that sidelined him for the remainder of the tournament, Pedri was part of Spain's squad that won , defeating 2–1 in the final. By the 2024–25 season, having remained largely injury-free, he contributed to 's triumphs in , the , and the Spanish , solidifying his status as one of the most promising midfielders in world football.

Early life and youth career

Early life

Pedro González López, known as Pedri, was born on 25 November 2002 in Bajamar, a coastal area of on the island of in the , . His family relocated to the nearby town of when he was three years old, where he spent the majority of his childhood in a close-knit community of around 10,000 residents. Pedri is the son of , a former amateur who later owned and operated a local bar and kiosk in , and María , who provided strong emotional support to the family. He has an older brother, , commonly nicknamed Fer, with whom he shares a close bond and who has accompanied him during significant moments in his career. Growing up in a football-loving household, Pedri developed an early passion for the sport, influenced by his father's background and the vibrant local environment of Tenerife's streets and parks. At the age of six, Pedri joined the youth ranks of , the local club in his hometown, where he initially played as a centre-back before transitioning to midfield roles. His talent became evident early on, leading him at age 13 to sign with CF Juventud Laguna, another Tenerife-based team, for further development. In , at the age of 15, Pedri made the pivotal decision to move to to join the youth academy of , seeking advanced training opportunities to pursue his professional aspirations.

Youth career

Pedri joined the youth academy of in 2018 at the age of 15, relocating from after progressing through the ranks at local club Juventud Laguna, where his technical skills had already drawn attention from scouts. The family's support was instrumental in this transition, enabling him to focus on his development at the prominent club. In his initial season, Pedri started with the Juvenil B team before being promoted to the Juvenil A squad by coach Suso Hernández, showcasing rapid adaptation and consistent performances across the age groups. He contributed notable goals in youth competitions, including key strikes that highlighted his composure in high-pressure moments. Coaches frequently praised his exceptional vision on the pitch and maturity beyond his years, with manager noting his potential to become a significant figure in Spanish football. On 15 July 2019, at just 16 years old, Pedri signed his first professional contract with , a four-year deal that reflected the club's confidence in his trajectory. Later that year, he began training with the reserve team, Atlético, as a stepping stone toward senior opportunities.

Club career

Las Palmas (2019–20)

In the summer of 2019, at the age of 16, Pedri was promoted from ' youth ranks to the senior team, where he began training regularly with the first-team squad under manager . He made his professional debut just two weeks into the season, starting in a 0–1 home defeat to on 18 August 2019, becoming one of the youngest players to feature for the club. Over the course of the 2019–20 campaign, Pedri established himself as a key creative force in midfield, appearing in 26 league matches (starting 9)—and logging 1,846 minutes on the pitch. His composure on the ball, vision, and ability to dictate tempo were evident, as he contributed 2 goals and 4 assists, helping secure a mid-table finish in 10th place. He also featured twice in the , playing 119 minutes without recording a goal or assist. Pedri's rapid rise drew interest from Europe's elite clubs, culminating in FC Barcelona activating his €5 million release clause on 20 January 2020. The deal included a loan back to until 30 June 2020, allowing him to continue developing in familiar surroundings while securing his move to the for the following campaign.

Barcelona debut (2020–21)

Pedri's transfer to was agreed upon with on 20 January 2020, with the deal set to take effect from 1 July 2020, allowing the 17-year-old to complete his season on loan at his boyhood club. He officially arrived at the club's Ciutat Esportiva training facility in August 2020, where he was assigned the number 16 shirt and immediately integrated into the first-team setup under new head coach , who had replaced earlier that summer. Pedri participated in pre-season preparations, including his unofficial debut in a friendly match against on 12 September 2020, where he played 45 minutes and impressed with his technical ability. Pedri made his competitive La Liga debut for on 27 September 2020, entering as a 72nd-minute substitute for in a 4–0 home victory over at the . He followed this with substitute appearances in subsequent La Liga matches against (4 October 2020) and Celta de Vigo (17 October 2020), gradually earning starts as Koeman tested his versatility in midfield. His European debut came in the group stage on 20 October 2020, where he started and scored Barcelona's second goal in a 5–1 win over , becoming one of the youngest scorers in the competition's history at 17 years and 330 days old. In the initial months of his Barcelona career, spanning late 2020, Pedri made his first four competitive appearances without registering a goal, primarily featuring in brief substitute roles that showcased his ball retention and positional awareness. Despite his tender age, he was widely praised for his remarkable composure under pressure, with Koeman noting the teenager's "natural talent and calmness" as key to his rapid adaptation to elite-level football alongside stars like . This early poise laid the foundation for his emergence as a pivotal midfield orchestrator, drawing comparisons to club legends like Xavi Hernández for his vision and maturity.

Breakthrough at Barcelona (2020–21)

Under Ronald Koeman's management, Pedri quickly established himself as a regular starter in 's midfield during the 2020–21 season, featuring in 52 matches across all competitions—the highest number for any player in the squad. His composure, vision, and technical ability allowed him to adapt seamlessly to the demands of senior football at just 17 years old, often partnering with players like and in a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation. Pedri scored his first goal for Barcelona on 20 October 2020, netting in a 5–1 UEFA Champions League group stage victory over Ferencvárosi after entering as a substitute. He followed this up with his maiden La Liga goal on 7 November 2020, finding the net in a 5–2 home win against Real Betis, assisted by Sergi Roberto. These moments highlighted his growing influence, as he contributed creatively from midfield while maintaining high possession and pressing intensity. In the UEFA Champions League, Pedri played a pivotal role in Barcelona's run to the quarter-finals, appearing in 9 of 10 matches with one goal and one assist. His performances earned him the man of the match award in four group and knockout stage games, showcasing his ability to dictate tempo and recover possession against elite opposition, including in the round of 16 ties against Paris Saint-Germain. Pedri concluded the season with 4 goals and 5 assists in 52 appearances, earning widespread acclaim for his maturity and impact. His exceptional campaign culminated in winning the 2021 Kopa Trophy, awarded by France Football as the world's best player under 21, recognizing his breakthrough year at both club and international level.

Copa del Rey and injuries (2021–23)

In the 2021 Copa del Rey final on 17 April 2021, Pedri featured as a substitute for Barcelona in their 4–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, securing the club's 31st title in the competition. His involvement in the match capped a breakthrough debut season where he appeared in 52 total matches across all competitions, contributing 4 goals. However, the 2021–22 campaign marked the beginning of significant injury challenges for the young midfielder, limiting his availability and shifting focus to recovery. Pedri's first notable hamstring issue emerged on 1 November 2021 during a match against , sidelining him for approximately two months and causing him to miss 14 club games as well as Spain's international commitments. He returned briefly in January 2022 but contracted shortly after, further delaying his progress. Despite these setbacks, he managed 22 appearances across all competitions in 2021–22, scoring 5 goals—including one in Barcelona's round-of-16 loss to on 20 January 2022—and providing 1 assist. The most severe blow came on 14 April 2022, when Pedri suffered a tear in the femoral biceps of his left during the quarter-final second leg against , forcing his substitution at halftime in a 3–2 defeat. This injury ruled him out for the remainder of the 2021–22 season, including Barcelona's final matches and initial preparations for the , with an estimated recovery of up to eight weeks. Entering the 2022–23 season, Pedri faced recurring muscle problems, including a in February 2023 that caused him to miss several fixtures. These issues restricted his consistency, though he still featured in 36 matches across all competitions, netting 7 goals and recording 4 assists—his most productive output in terms of direct contributions despite the absences. clinched the title that year, but Pedri's role was diminished by ongoing rehabilitation efforts rather than surgical interventions, highlighting a period of physical vulnerability for the 19-year-old at the time. Over the 2021–23 span, he tallied 12 goals and 5 assists in 58 appearances, underscoring his talent amid persistent health hurdles.

Titles and resurgence (2023–25)

Following a challenging period marked by persistent injuries in the preceding seasons, Pedri began his resurgence in the 2023–24 campaign by regaining full fitness and establishing himself as a key figure in 's midfield. He featured in 24 matches, starting the majority and contributing to the team's cohesive play with his vision and passing accuracy, which helped secure a strong second-place finish in the league. The 2024–25 season marked Pedri's most consistent and impactful year to date, as he made over 40 appearances across all competitions, including 37 in alone, demonstrating remarkable durability and versatility in central midfield. He recorded 4 goals and 5 assists in league play, while his overall contributions reached 8 goals and 10 assists when including cup ties, showcasing his growing influence in both scoring and creative roles. Pedri also contributed to Barcelona's Spanish Super Cup victory in January 2025. He earned man of the match honors on multiple occasions, including standout performances against Levante where his 118 completed passes, 45 in the final third, underscored his dominance. Pedri's form was pivotal in Barcelona's successful 2024–25 domestic campaign, culminating in the title win after a 2–0 victory over Espanyol on 15 May 2025, securing the club's 28th league championship. Earlier, on 26 April 2025, he scored a stunning long-range goal in the final against Real , opening the scoring in a 3–2 victory that completed the double and highlighted his ability in high-stakes matches. In recognition of his resurgence and long-term commitment, Pedri signed a contract extension with in early 2025, keeping him at the club until 2030. By mid-2025, his had risen to €140 million, reflecting his elevated status as one of Europe's premier midfield talents.

2025–present

In the early stages of the 2025–26 season, Pedri continued to be a pivotal figure for in , making 10 appearances and scoring 2 goals—one at home and one away—while providing 1 assist. In the early 2025–26 season up to his injury, he featured in 13 matches across all competitions, accumulating 2 goals and 2 assists overall. His influence was evident in his recognition as man of the match in 13 of 's approximately 20 matches during the calendar year 2025, highlighting his consistent dominance on the pitch. In the UEFA Champions League, Pedri appeared in 3 matches, recording 1 assist and achieving a 94.34% pass accuracy, underscoring his role in Barcelona's midfield control. His performances throughout the year earned him a spot in the 2025 FIFPRO Men's World 11, where he was selected as the best midfielder based on votes from over 20,000 professional players. Pedri's season was interrupted on 26 October 2025, during Barcelona's 2–1 defeat to Real Madrid in , when he suffered a tear in the distal of his left . The club announced the injury on 29 October, confirming it as a issue expected to sideline him until after the November international break, with a potential return in mid-November 2025. As of mid-November 2025, Pedri is ahead of schedule in his recovery and could return sooner than initially anticipated. This marks his first multi-game absence since 2024, adding to Barcelona's ongoing injury concerns.

International career

Youth and early senior career

Pedri began his international career with Spain's youth national teams in 2017, debuting for the U15 side before progressing through the U16, U17, U18, U19, and U21 squads. He amassed over 20 appearances across these levels, showcasing his technical ability and vision in midfield during qualifying matches and tournaments. In the 2019 , Pedri emerged as a key player for , contributing to their quarter-final run with his composure and passing range in the group's competitive fixtures. Pedri's breakthrough club form at in the 2020–21 season earned him a senior call-up, leading to his debut for the Spain national team on 25 March 2021 against in a 1–1 qualifier draw. At 18 years and 4 months old, he became the third youngest debutant in Spanish history. Prior to , he made four senior appearances, including the subsequent qualifier against Georgia and friendlies versus and , where he demonstrated maturity beyond his years in possession and transitions.

UEFA Euro 2020

Pedri earned a surprise call-up to Spain's 24-man squad for in May 2021, at the age of 18 years and six months, making him the youngest player selected despite possessing just four senior international caps from friendlies earlier that year. His inclusion reflected coach Luis Enrique's faith in the midfielder's rapid maturation during his debut season, positioning him as a key option in central midfield alongside veterans like . Throughout the tournament, delayed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pedri featured in all six of Spain's matches, starting every game and accumulating 629 minutes on the pitch—the third-highest total among outfield players for La Roja. He provided one assist, delivering a precise pass to set up Ferran Torres' goal in extra time during the round-of-16 victory over Croatia (5-3 after extra time), helping Spain advance amid an eight-goal thriller where Pedri also unfortunately scored an own goal earlier. Spain progressed to the semi-finals with a 5-0 group-stage win over Slovakia, a penalty-shootout quarter-final triumph against Switzerland (1-1, 3-3 on pens), but exited after losing 1-1 (4-2 on pens) to Italy, where Pedri excelled with 65 out of 66 passes completed. Although Pedri did not score, his composure in possession and role in Spain's build-up play were pivotal, earning widespread praise for his midfield control and maturity beyond his years; he was named the tournament's Youngest Player of the Competition by . The grueling schedule, including over 70 appearances across club and country in the 2020-21 season, took a significant physical toll on the teenager, leading to a mandated rest period post-tournament to aid recovery before rejoining .

2020 Summer Olympics

Following his standout performances at , Pedri was selected for Spain's under-23 squad for the delayed in , held from 23 July to 8 August 2021. At 18 years old, he was eligible under the tournament's age rules without needing an over-age exemption, joining a squad that included several Euro 2020 teammates like , , and . His inclusion came despite concerns from about his workload, as the club preferred he rest after a demanding season. Pedri featured in all six of Spain's matches, logging 559 minutes on the pitch as a central . He started the group stage opener against on 22 July 2021, playing the full 90 minutes in a 0–0 draw—his 66th appearance of the calendar year—and continued to start in the subsequent group games against (1–0 win) and (1–1 draw). In the knockout stages, he played 102 minutes against (5–2 win after extra time), 83 minutes versus (1–0 win after extra time in the semi-final), and the full 120 minutes in the gold medal match against on 6 August 2021. Although he did not record any goals or assists, his composure in possession and defensive contributions were key to Spain's progression. Spain reached the final after defeating Japan in the semi-finals, thanks to Marco Asensio's extra-time winner, but fell 2–1 to in the decider after extra time, with scoring Spain's lone goal to level the score at 1–1. The team secured the , marking Spain's first Olympic medal in men's football since the gold in 1992. Pedri's endurance was widely praised, having played nearly every minute across the Euros and Olympics—a grueling schedule of over 70 matches in 11 months—without showing signs of fatigue on the field.

2022 FIFA World Cup

Despite ongoing concerns from the 2022–23 season, Pedri was included in Spain's 26-man squad for the in after returning from a that had sidelined him since September 2022. His rehabilitation concluded in mid-November 2022, allowing him to join the national team camp just days before their opening match. Coach opted for a youth-focused midfield, pairing the 19-year-old Pedri with Gavi and to provide creativity and control. Pedri started all four of Spain's matches, demonstrating resilience despite his recent recovery, though his minutes were managed cautiously to avoid setbacks. He played 57 minutes in the group stage opener against Costa Rica, where Spain secured a dominant 7–0 victory, before being substituted as a precaution. He completed full 90-minute stints in the 1–1 draw with Germany and the 1–2 loss to Japan, contributing to Spain's qualification as runners-up in Group E with five points from three games. In the round of 16 against Morocco, Pedri featured for the full 120 minutes during extra time in a goalless draw, but Spain were eliminated after losing 3–0 in the penalty shootout. Across the tournament, he logged 357 minutes without recording a goal or assist, focusing instead on dictating tempo with his passing accuracy exceeding 90% in each appearance. Spain's campaign highlighted Pedri's growing importance to the national team, even amid fitness limitations, as his vision and ball retention helped maintain possession dominance—averaging over 60% across their games. However, the physical toll of the tournament contributed to broader concerns about his durability, with later noting the need for careful load management post-Qatar. Following the exit, Pedri experienced no immediate injury recurrence and rejoined for their mid-season resumption, but the rigors of international duty exacerbated his vulnerability, leading to absences later in the 2022–23 club campaign.

UEFA Euro 2024

Pedri returned to the Spain national team for UEFA Euro 2024 following a year-long absence caused by recurrent injuries, with his last appearance having been during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Selected for the squad despite lingering fitness doubts, the Barcelona midfielder started in all three group stage fixtures under manager Luis de la Fuente, showcasing his vision and control in the engine room. In Spain's opening match against Croatia on 15 June 2024, Pedri completed the full 90 minutes and delivered a precise through-ball assist for Fabián Ruiz's volley, contributing to a commanding 3–0 victory. His seamless interplay with Rodri anchored the midfield, enabling Spain's fluid attacking transitions and high possession dominance. Pedri featured for 71 minutes in the subsequent 1–0 win over on 20 June, where he recorded an exceptional 98% passing accuracy by completing 65 of 66 passes, including several progressive balls that tested the Italian defense. He then played the entire 90 minutes in the final group game against on 24 June, helping secure another clean-sheet triumph and top position in Group B. Throughout these outings, Pedri's partnership with Rodri proved pivotal, providing balance and creativity that underpinned Spain's unbeaten run to the knockout stages. Pedri started the quarter-final against hosts Germany on 5 July but suffered a left knee ligament injury after only eight minutes from a robust challenge by Toni Kroos, forcing his substitution in tears. Spain advanced 2–1 after extra time, but scans confirmed Pedri's tournament was over, sidelining him for the semi-final victory over France and the final. Although limited to four appearances totaling 314 minutes, with one assist and no goals, Pedri's early influence helped propel Spain to their fourth European Championship title—their first since 2012—capped by a 2–1 defeat of England in the Berlin final on 14 July 2024. His brief but effective collaboration with Rodri was widely credited as a cornerstone of Spain's cohesive midfield dynamic and overall success.

Post-2024 senior career

Following Spain's successful campaign, Pedri continued to feature prominently in the national team's post-tournament fixtures. In the , he participated in the group stage matches for in League A, Group 4. On 5 September 2024, Pedri started in the 0–0 draw against in , contributing to a solid defensive display that maintained 's unbeaten run. Three days later, on 8 September 2024, he made a substitute appearance in the 4–1 victory over in , entering the match in the 28th minute as a tactical adjustment following a red card to ; 's dominant performance, with goals from Fabian Ruiz (twice), , and Gavi, helped secure their first win in the competition. ultimately topped the group with seven points from three matches, advancing to the quarter-finals. Pedri's form carried into the qualifiers in Europe, where he started both of Spain's October 2025 matches in Group E. On 11 October 2025, he delivered a performance in the 2–0 win over Georgia in , controlling midfield with 92% pass accuracy over 78 minutes. Four days later, on 14 October 2025, Pedri starred again in the 4–0 rout of in , providing a key cross for Mikel Merino's opener and additional key passes while earning man of the match honors for his all-around dominance, including 89% pass accuracy. These outings extended Spain's perfect qualifying record to four wins from four, placing them atop the group with twelve points. Across the 2024–25 international season, Pedri accumulated eight caps for , scoring no goals and providing two assists in competitive fixtures. However, his momentum was interrupted by a injury sustained at club level with , announced on 29 October 2025, which ruled him out of Spain's November qualifiers against and Georgia. The distal biceps femoris tear in his left leg was expected to sideline him for approximately six weeks. As of mid-November 2025, his recovery is progressing ahead of schedule, with potential return to action sooner than anticipated.

Style of play

Technical skills and positioning

Pedri operates as a versatile central , capable of fulfilling roles as a box-to-box No. 8, an advanced No. 10, or occasionally a deep-lying playmaker, adapting seamlessly to Barcelona's tactical demands in a 4-3-3 formation. His positioning between the lines allows him to link defense and attack, constantly seeking space to receive the ball on the half-turn and initiate progressive play. This fluidity has made him a pivotal figure in Barcelona's midfield under Hansi Flick, where he dictates tempo and disrupts opposition structures. His passing stands out as one of his core strengths, with an exceptional completion rate of 90.7% in the 2025–26 season as of October 2025, enabling precise distribution across short, medium, and long ranges. Pedri's vision for through-balls and long-range passes has been instrumental in chance creation, tying for third in with 70 opportunities generated the previous season, blending the metronomic control reminiscent of Hernández. In terms of and close control, Pedri demonstrates agility paired with astute , achieving a 70% success rate on take-ons in the early 2025–26 campaign as of October 2025 while navigating tight spaces effectively. His ability to carry the ball at speed and change direction mirrors the technical elegance of elite midfielders, allowing him to evade pressure and maintain possession under duress. This balance of flair and composure contributes to his reputation for tempo control, often compared to for his intelligent orchestration of play. Pedri is actively involved in set-piece execution for both club and country, regularly taking free-kicks and corners, with 9 free-kicks attempted in the 2025–26 and 41 corners delivered in the prior season. His delivery from dead balls adds another dimension to Barcelona's attacking options, showcasing his precision and composure in high-pressure situations.

Physical attributes and development

Pedri stands at 174 cm tall and weighs approximately 68 kg, possessing a slim build that enhances his and quick directional changes on the pitch, though it has also contributed to concerns over his vulnerability to physical demands. As a right-footed player, he predominantly operates in central midfield roles where his lean frame allows for nimble footwork and evasion of challenges. Since joining in 2020, Pedri has been prone to muscle injuries, particularly affecting his s, with over 10 such incidents recorded since 2021, including multiple tears that sidelined him for extended periods, such as a three-month absence in the 2021-22 season. These setbacks, often linked to his initial physical fragility and a demanding schedule that saw him play 73 matches in his debut season, prompted to implement targeted adaptations, including daily strength exercises focused on and calf reinforcement, as well as a shift from traditional weight training to stretches and resistance bands using rubber equipment. This regimen, guided by specialists like Julio Tous, has helped mitigate recurrence, enabling a largely injury-free 2024-25 campaign and allowing him to maintain higher match availability. However, in October 2025, Pedri suffered another injury expected to sideline him for 34 days, underscoring ongoing physical challenges. Pedri's physical maturation has evolved significantly from his raw, technically gifted emergence in to a more robust and complete by 2025, marked by enhanced stamina that permits sustained high-intensity performance through 90 minutes and improved efficacy in aerial duels, where he achieved a 66.67% win rate in recent seasons compared to lower benchmarks in his early years. These gains stem from a calculated physical overhaul, including genetic assessments and customized endurance protocols, transforming him from a player susceptible to into one capable of leading Barcelona's midfield dynamically. His mental fortitude has been widely praised, particularly for demonstrating qualities in Spain's international teams, where he served as , and for his resilience in rebounding from injuries through intensified personal training and family support, often expressing to return "stronger and better." This mindset has not only aided his recovery but also positioned him as a vocal presence among peers, fostering team cohesion during challenging periods.

Career statistics and honours

Club statistics

Pedri's professional club career began with UD Las Palmas in the 2019–20 season, where he made 26 appearances across all competitions without scoring a goal or providing an assist. Following his transfer to FC Barcelona in the summer of 2020, he has established himself as a key midfielder, accumulating 215 appearances, 28 goals, and 23 assists as of November 2025. His contributions span La Liga, Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League, and other domestic competitions, though several seasons have been hampered by injuries, including a more active 35 appearances in 2022–23 despite muscular issues. The following table provides a season-by-season breakdown of Pedri's appearances, goals, and assists for across major competitions (aggregates excluding minor cups or friendlies unless specified).
SeasonAppearancesGoalsAssistsKey Competitions Breakdown
2020–21524637 , 6 , 9 Champions League
2021–22225117 , 4 , 5 Champions League (injury-affected)
2022–23357126 , 5 , 7 Champions League, 2 Supercopa
2023–24344524 , 5 , 5 Champions League
2024–25596834 , 7 , 8 Champions League, 3 Supercopa, 4 other
2025–26 (up to Nov 2025)13229 , 2 Champions League, 2 Supercopa
Total2152823(Totals exclude ; minor discrepancies due to ongoing season and comp definitions)
These statistics highlight Pedri's growing influence despite recurrent injuries, with his most appearances in a season being 59 in 2024–25, where he contributed 14 goal involvements.

International statistics

Pedri has earned 38 caps for the senior national team since his debut in a 1–0 friendly win over on 25 March 2021, scoring 5 goals and providing 5 assists as of November 2025. His contributions have been particularly notable in major tournaments and qualifiers, where he has demonstrated composure in midfield while contributing to Spain's attacking play. The following table summarizes his senior international appearances by competition:
CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssists
UEFA Euro1001
400
1212
World Cup Qualifiers721
Friendlies521
Total3855
In 2025 alone, Pedri featured in 6 matches for , scoring 3 goals—including a brace in a 6–0 qualifier victory over on 7 September—and recording 2 assists. He sustained a injury in late October 2025 that sidelined him for the November international window. Prior to his senior breakthrough, Pedri represented at youth levels, including 4 caps and 1 goal for the U21 team between 2020 and 2021. He also competed for the U23 side at the , making 6 appearances en route to a , though he did not score.

Club

Pedri has won multiple titles with since joining the club in 2020. His club honours include two titles in the 2022–23 and 2024–25 seasons. He also secured two trophies in the 2020–21 and 2024–25 campaigns, with the latter coming in a 3–2 extra-time victory over Real in the final. Additionally, Pedri lifted the Spanish twice, in the 2022–23 and 2024–25 editions, including a 5–2 win against Real in the 2025 final. His first senior honour was the 2020–21 at the age of 18.

International

On the international stage, Pedri contributed to Spain's triumphs in major tournaments. He was part of the squad that won in 2019. He also earned a silver medal at the , losing 1–2 to in extra time in the final. Pedri helped claim the in 2024, starting in the opening match before an injury sidelined him.

Individual

Pedri's performances have earned him several personal accolades. In 2021, he received the , awarded to the best player under 21 years old by . He was selected for the Men's World 11 in 2025, his first inclusion in the annual team voted by professional players. Additionally, Pedri won the Player of the Month award multiple times in 2025, including for April.

References

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