Pedri hails Rodri’s influence in Barcelona’s commanding Mestalla victory

Pedri has rejected suggestions that he and Rodri do not understand one another on the pitch, saying the pair will continue to improve as they play more matches together.

The Barcelona midfielder spoke after his side produced a dominant 5-0 victory over Valencia at Mestalla. The result saw Barcelona move clear at the top of La Liga and provided a strong statement before the start of their UEFA Champions League campaign.

Although the scoreline suggested a straightforward evening for the visitors, Pedri insisted the match had been demanding and that Barcelona had needed to maintain their concentration throughout.

“Some people may say it was an easy match because of the result, but things are never easy here,” Pedri told Movistar. “It is a match for keeping our confidence high and continuing to add points.”

Barcelona controlled the game from the outset and eventually secured a comprehensive win against Valencia. The performance also underlined the attacking options available to the Catalan club, with Pedri confident they will not lack goals during the season.

“People always want a striker who scores 40 goals,” he said. “We have players capable of doing that. We have many players who can play in attack. We will not suffer from a lack of goals this year.”

Pedri was also asked about his relationship with Rodri, amid comments suggesting the two midfielders have struggled to form an understanding. He dismissed that view and instead highlighted the Manchester City player’s control and defensive contribution.

“People say that Rodri and I do not understand each other, but playing with him is very comfortable,” Pedri said. “He rarely loses the ball and helps a lot in defence. We will get to know each other better and, with more matches, we will become better.”

The midfielder also thanked the Valencia supporters for applauding him at the final whistle. Hearing that reception at an opponent’s ground was particularly meaningful, he said.

“Thank you for the applause at Mestalla,” Pedri added. “It is very special to hear it in an opponent’s stadium. I wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season. We have to try to win everything. We are Barcelona.”

Barcelona’s victory gave them sole possession of first place in La Liga, while their display at Mestalla offered encouragement ahead of their European campaign. Pedri’s comments also suggested that he expects his partnership with Rodri to develop further as the season progresses.

Readers can discuss the match and other football news in greater depth on the Kooora forums.