Despite Lionel Messi Fandom, Pedri Picks Cristiano Ronaldo for His Ideal Squad

When playing for a club like FC Barcelona, it is expected that you have a fandom for Lionel Messi. After all, the Argentinian superstar has given a lot to the club, and the efforts have likewise been reciprocated, with his stellar career as a testament to this fact. But in a surprising turn of events, Catalan’s star player Pedri has broken the norms as he shockingly snubbed his club’s icon for La Pulga’s long-term rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. In an aberration from the expected reply, Pedri’s selection piques interest and will certainly stir the age-old Messi-Ronaldo argument with full force.

This shocking revelation came during one of the off-pitch interviews. In a candid declaration, Pedri took Cristiano Ronaldo’s name to add to his ideal squad, acknowledging the Portuguese superstar as ‘the best striker he has ever seen in his life‘. Ironically, Pedri had earlier expressed his fandom for Lionel Messi, backing him as the ‘best player in history.’ In fact, the 21-year-old shared the locker room with the Inter Miami icon for one season. Pedri lifted the Golden Boy award the same year when Lionel Messi clinched his seventh Ballon d’Or.

Since the departure of the World Cup winner, Pedri has seamlessly adjusted at Camp Nou, accumulating a total of 17 goals and nine assists in 120 games across various club competitions since making his debut in the 2020–21 season. However, this season, the player hasn’t been able to contribute consistently due to his injury. Speaking of which, we have an update in his own words.

When will Pedri return from his injury? 

The 2023–24 season has been quite unlucky for Pedri. The Spanish international is currently sidelined due to a muscle injury. While fans are eager for his return, the midfielder himself gave an update, insisting he doesn’t know the exact period of his recovery. While speaking with Ibai Llanos, he said, “I don’t have a date to return, but it will be soon.” Notably, Pedri has managed to make just 8 appearances in La Liga, scoring a goal this season.

READ MORE: Lionel Messi Ignored As Cristiano Ronaldo & PSG Legend Are Called ‘The Most Complete Players’

As for the UEFA Champions League, the former Las Palmas star has bagged an assist in just three appearances. Missing the New Year’s opener against his former club is guaranteed; Pedri can also become an absentee for the Copa Del Rey round of 32 against Barbastro as well as the Spanish Super Cup against Osasuna. Let’s see how Xavi and Co. navigate through turbulent waters without him. 

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