18-Year-Old FC Barcelona Wonderkid Reaches Same Market Value as Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi finally left FC Barcelona this season after spending over 20 years at the club. As a result, while a financial mayday is ever-present, the club’s quality has taken a hit on the field. However, things aren’t entirely gloomy in Spain as the club still has several world class talents at its disposal.

One of them is 18-year-old Spanish midfielder Pedri, who enjoyed his breakthrough season in 2020-21. He made his Barcelona debut at the age of 17 after signing from Las Palmas. FC Barcelona’s manager Ronald Koeman showed his trust in the youngster and Pedri responded excellently by nailing down his spot in the starting eleven.

He also got his first Spanish cap this year and won the Young Player of the Tournament award in this edition of the UEFA Euros 2020. As a result, the relatively unknown prospect over a year ago is now considered one of the best midfielders in the world.

His market value reflects his class (and his young age), as the Spanish midfielder is worth 80 million euros according to Transfermarkt. Incidentally, Messi has the same market value at the age of 34.

Pedri, along with midfield partner Frenkie De Jong, are two of the most expensive midfielders in the La Liga. His progress has been compared to that of a young Lionel Messi, while comparisons to Andres Iniesta are inescapable. If he does follow in either of those esteemed footsteps, Pedri will become the next FC Barcelona great.

Lionel Messi and his transfer to Paris Saint Germain.

Messi’s exit from Barcelona was full of controversy as the Argentinian did want to extend his contract with the club. However, his high wages (35 million euros per year) meant that Barcelona couldn’t register him due to La Liga regulations.

Messi was distraught in his final press conference with the club before finally announcing his next move. The Argentinian joined his former teammate Neymar Jr. in Paris and is now plying his trade in Ligue 1.

PSG’s team looks unbeatable this season as Messi wasn’t the only captain they signed from a Spanish giant. Sergio Ramos also moved to PSG for free after he couldn’t extend his contract with Real Madrid. It’ll be interesting to see what this super squad will achieve in the future.

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