Pedri talks Olmo, Raphinha, Yamal, Gavi, Ansu Frenkie, Araujo, Nico Williams

Barcelona midfielder Pedri has shared his thoughts on some key moments from the summer and his experiences with teammates, especially highlighting Dani Olmo, who has been one of the most significant signings this season.

Pedri, who shares a close friendship with Olmo, revealed that they had discussed the possibility of playing together during the summer. He expressed his excitement about seeing Olmo join Barcelona and how he wanted to play alongside him.

According to Pedri, Olmo has already showcased his quality in two spectacular games, although Pedri was already well aware of his abilities.

“Yes, the truth is that we were talking about it in the summer, that he should come, that I wanted to play with him,” said Pedri in an interview with Mundo Deportivo. 

It’s a privilege. I think he’s had two spectacular games. I already knew the quality he had, which people hadn’t seen so much of.

There was a lot of debate during the summer, especially around the Euros, regarding the comparison between Pedri and Olmo.

However, the midfielder brushed off any concerns, noting that they had played together under Luis Enrique in the national team and had always understood each other well on the field.

“Yes, we already knew that. We also played here together with Luis Enrique in the national team. When we play together we understand each other very well and we knew that it was not a problem,” he explained.

When asked about the current “magician” at Barça, Pedri quickly pointed to Olmo, praising his ability to turn between the lines with finesse and calling it a pleasure to play alongside him.

“He is, he is. He has a lot of magic, especially when he turns between the lines, I love it. It is a pleasure to play alongside him,” he said.

Pedri’s thoughts on Nico Williams and Raphinha

Pedri also touched upon Nico Williams, mentioning that his absence was a result of some contractual issues, and although it was a tricky situation, everyone at the club respected his decision.

“Ah, we teased him a bit. He had a contract with the club, it was a difficult situation. If he decided to stay, it would be for something. 

“Now, I hope he does well. Here in the national team we have a lot of fun with him and the truth is that if he is happy, we are all happy,” he explained.

Raphinha’s name came up as well, with Pedri commending the Brazilian’s hard work and determination to prove himself at Barça.

Despite constant speculation about potential departures, Pedri noted that Raphinha’s commitment to the team, both through his goals and assists, has been crucial.

“I think that at Barça there’s always talk about departures, that someone else is coming and is going to play ahead of you. 

“And I think that Rapha is a player who, apart from everything, from the goals, from the assists he gives, is the one who works the hardest, the one who gives his all the most. And that’s highly valued. I would always have him in my team.”

Pedri’s take on his Barcelona teammates

Finally, the conversation shifted to the younger players like Lamine Yamal, who Pedri believes are the foundation of both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

He stressed the importance of guiding younger talents like Yamal, ensuring they remain calm and enjoy their time on the pitch.

“Yes, we know each other from both the national team and Barça. There is little to say about Lamine. I think everyone can see that already. We are trying to help him to be calm and enjoy himself.”

In terms of other teammates, Pedri mentioned Gavi, who is working hard to return from injury. He shared that Gavi is staying positive, despite the tough early months of recovery, and Pedri looks forward to playing with him again soon.

“Well, I see him doing well. I speak to him almost every day. I always see him at the Ciutat Esportiva, he is working very hard to get back in good shape.

”I tell him to stay calm, that the worst is over. Now he is on the pitch having more fun because the first months of injury are the hardest. I want to play with him, but I hope he recovers well.

He also expressed eagerness to see other injured players like Ansu Fati, Frenkie de Jong, and Ronald Araujo return to full fitness, noting how vital it is to have the entire squad back and performing at their best.

“Yes, it’s clear. To all those who are out. I think Ronald (Araujo) has a little more left than the others, but we want to have the whole squad there at full strength.”