While winning Barcelona's third-ever treble remains the top priority for Pedri, the midfielder also has dreams of taking home the Ballon d'Or.
Barcelona could be well on their way to claiming four trophies in Hansi Flick's debut campaign. The Catalans defeated Real Madrid for the Spanish Super Cup back in January and most recently got the better of their bitter rivals in the Copa del Rey final. Now, they have their sights set on winning La Liga and the Champions League.
The Spanish giants will like their chances of topping both competitions thanks to their star-studded squad. Although Raphinha stands as one of the 2025 Ballon d'Or favorites thanks to his 51 (and counting) goal contributions for Barcelona this season, Pedri has joined the conversation for his brilliant performances in the midfield. The Spaniard spoke about the most prestigious award in soccer ahead of the first leg of the Champions League semifinals.
"Since Rodri won it, it’s shown that a player who runs the midfield and dictates the tempo and the rhythm of the game can win a Ballon d'Or," Pedri said. "I was really pleased he won it because aside from the season he had, I really enjoy playing with him when I’m with the national team. He’s a player who controls the game really well, wins the ball back, gets forward, scores goals—he’s everywhere on the pitch."
Rodri controversially took home the 2024 Ballon d'Or over Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior back in October. The midfielder was awarded the honor for helping Manchester City win their fourth consecutive Premier League title and for his role in Spain's Euro 2024-winning campaign. Pedri played alongside Rodri at Euro 2024, but saw his tournament end early after suffering a knee injury in the quarterfinals against Germany.
