Barcelona midfield heavyweight sends motivational message after Atletico Madrid defeat

Saturday night saw Barcelona succumb to their fifth loss in La Liga this season as they were defeated 2-1 at home by Atletico Madrid.

As a result, the Blaugrana lost their top spot in the league standings, with Atletico Madrid taking over while Real Madrid’s win over Sevilla on Sunday sent them into second place with Barça slipping down to third.

Despite delivering arguably their most complete performance of the season, Barcelona failed to walk away with three points, succumbing to their third home league loss in a row.

Pedri’s message

Nevertheless, Pedri, who was the best player on the field during Saturday’s game, sent a powerful message to his Barcelona teammates and supporters on social media, urging them to stay positive as they approach the New Year.

“We have to turn this anger into fuel. We have to come back with our batteries charged and with the sole purpose of improving, competing again at our best level and finishing the season at the top,” he wrote.

“Enjoy your family these days, as we will do. It will be good for all of us. Happy Holidays and Força Barça!”

The Barcelona players will return from the mid-season break on December 29, when they will resume training under the orders of manager Hansi Flick.

An arduous fixture list awaits them in January starting with the Copa del Rey clash against UD Barbastro, followed by the Spanish Super Cup semi-final versus Athletic Club.

Should Barça prevail there, they will face one of Mallorca or Real Madrid in the final later that week.

If not, their next fixture will be in La Liga against Getafe on January 18 before they take on SL Benfica (UEFA Champions League), Valencia (La Liga), and Atalanta (UEFA Champions League) to close the month.