Pedri: Messi is the best in history after one season together

Spain midfielder Pedri has hailed Lionel Messi as the best footballer in history after their single season together at Barcelona. Pedri made the comments during an interview with Teledeporte, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. Spain drew 0-0 against Cabo Verde and beat Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their first two 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. Pedri started both games for La Roja.

Pedri reflected on his time alongside Messi at club level. He said: “I was lucky enough to be able to play with him, to enjoy him on the pitch, in training… For me, he is the best in history. What he is doing at the age he is, I think only he can do.” Pedri and Messi played together at Barcelona for one season.

The 23-year-old also praised teammate Gavi, describing him as both a support and a headache. Pedri said: “He is a support and a headache. There are days when I want to kill him and others when I love him a lot.” Gavi’s intensity and relentless energy define his playing style, making him a key figure for both Barcelona and Spain.

Pedri highlighted Ferran Torres’ contributions to Barcelona and Spain. He said: “Ferran is a player who can contribute a lot to the team. I was really looking forward to him scoring that goal [against Saudi Arabia], I’m sure it will come, he’ll score important goals. We help each other.” Torres nearly scored against Saudi Arabia before VAR ruled out a late goal.

Pedri reserved special praise for Lamine Yamal, calling him a decisive player who can change a result instantly. He said: “[Lamine is] a decisive player who can change a result in a moment.” Yamal has already established himself as a player Spain and Barcelona turn to for moments of impact.

Pedri, Gavi, Lamine and the rest of the Barcelona contingent will face Uruguay in their next match, scheduled in the coming days.