Jeffren Suarez, a former Barcelona player and UEFA Champions League winner, recently emphasized that Pedri plays a more crucial role in Barcelona’s success than Lionel Messi or Lamine Yamal. Speaking on the Helado Oscuo podcast, Suarez argued that midfielders like Pedri significantly enhance the performance of forwards, making them appear even better on the field. He drew comparisons between Pedri and Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, suggesting that Messi’s brilliance was largely supported by the presence of such midfield maestros.
Suarez elaborated on Pedri’s potential and the importance of his development, stating:
“He’s 18 years old, and it’s normal that he doesn’t know the consequences of his actions, but you have to get through to him, because if you don’t do it in time… forget it. I think Barca will do things the right way. He’s not the one who makes the difference. Barcelona has very good players, and people talk about Pedri. It’s like if Xavi and Iniesta hadn’t played with Messi, Messi wouldn’t be what he is. Look at what happened when he went to PSG…”
Jeffren Suarez’s tenure at Barcelona began in 2004, where he played mainly for the club’s C and B teams before moving to Sporting CP in 2011. Over his career with Barcelona’s first team, Suarez appeared 34 times, collecting three LaLiga titles and one Champions League medal, although his direct overlap with Messi on the pitch saw just 18 matches.
Messi Recognizes Lamine Yamal as a Young Talent Reminiscent of His Own Early Career
While Suarez focuses on Pedri’s impact, Lionel Messi also recently acknowledged the promise of Barcelona’s youth by naming Lamine Yamal as a player who reminds him of his younger self. At an event held at Adidas’ headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, in December 2024, Messi praised Yamal’s potential and future prospects within the sport.
The Barcelona legend said:
“There’s a very good generation of young footballers who have many years ahead of them. If I have to choose someone, because of the age and because of the future that he has, I’ve heard that they have chosen Lamine Yamal and without doubt [it’s him] for me, too. I agree it depends on him and many things because that’s how soccer is, but he’s the present and without a doubt has a huge future.”
Messi’s legacy at Barcelona remains unmatched, having represented the club for 21 years before his departure in 2021. During his time at the Catalan club, he played 778 matches, scoring 672 goals and providing 303 assists, firmly establishing his place as one of football’s all-time greats.
The Importance of Midfielders in Shaping Barcelona’s Success
The ongoing debate surrounding the key figures in Barcelona’s lineup highlights the critical influence of midfielders like Pedri in shaping team dynamics. Suarez’s remarks reinforce the idea that exceptional support in midfield often elevates forward players, creating a balanced and dangerous team. The historical synergy between Xavi, Iniesta, and Messi exemplifies this dynamic, suggesting that the current generation must continue this legacy to achieve success.
As Barcelona seeks to regain its former dominance, focusing on nurturing talents like Pedri and Yamal could be pivotal. Their development and impact may well determine how the club performs in upcoming domestic and European competitions, keeping Barcelona competitive at the highest level.