Pedri says Lionel Messi made Argentina his second team

Pedri’s enduring admiration for Messi

Barcelona midfielder Pedri says Argentina has held a special place in his heart because of Lionel Messi, and that he supported the South American side whenever Spain were eliminated from a World Cup.

“Argentina holds a special place in my heart because of Leo Messi. I’ve supported them since I was a child, and whenever Spain was knocked out of tournaments, I would root for Argentina—all because of the love I’ve had for Leo for years,” Pedri said at a press conference ahead of El Clásico.

Pedri and Messi spent a season together at Barcelona during the Argentine’s final years at the club. The midfielder said he considered himself fortunate to share the pitch with Messi, but wished their time together had lasted longer.

“To me, Messi is the best. I know some people have different opinions, but based on what I’ve seen myself, no one comes close. I was lucky enough to play alongside him for a full year, but that year felt far too short. I wish I could have spent many more years with him.”

Pedri won the World Cup with Spain, whose final victory over Argentina came against a side captained by Messi. He described his affection for Argentina as a consequence of his long-standing admiration for the forward.

The remarks came before Barcelona’s meeting with Real Madrid in El Clásico, a fixture with major implications for the early-season La Liga standings.