Barcelona's attacking prowess was on full display once again as they thrashed Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. While Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Robert Lewandowski stole the headlines, Pedri's impressive performance was a testament to his exceptional abilities. The midfielder's impressive display was not limited to his attacking prowess, as he showcased his defensive skills, winning the ball back more than any other player in La Liga.
According to data from Cadena Cope, Pedri has more ball recoveries than any other player in the top five leagues, including the Champions League. His defensive work rate is staggering, covering an average of 11.5 kilometers per game in Europe, significantly more than his teammates. Notably, he is 6 kilometers ahead of his closest teammate, Jules Kounde. This impressive defensive output has been a key argument for Pedri's status as one of the world's most complete midfielders.
Pedri's defensive abilities are further highlighted by FBRef statistics, which rank him eighth in La Liga for blocks. However, it is his on-ball performance that truly sets him apart. He boasts the second-most successful passes in the opposition half in Europe and stands out even more in Spain. His passing range is exceptional, with the midfielder ranking top for progressive passes (third in Europe's top five leagues), top for passes into the final third (sixth in Europe), and third for touches.
Moreover, Pedri's creativity and vision are evident in his passing statistics. He ranks third for through balls (ninth in Europe), third for passes into the penalty area, fourth for key passes, and fourth for shot-creating actions. His expected assists per game are also impressive, ranking sixth, while his progressive carrying distance is seventh. These statistics demonstrate Pedri's exceptional ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and control the tempo of the game.
Pedri's improved fitness has been a significant factor in his outstanding performances this season. He has missed only one match, a testament to his enhanced physical conditioning and his importance to Hansi Flick's side. In a recent interview, Pedri revealed that he had altered his fitness program, abandoning weightlifting as part of his routine. This change seems to have paid dividends, as he continues to perform at an elite level.
Flick's admiration for Pedri is well-deserved, having referred to him as the best midfielder in the world on several occasions. The coach's praise was recently echoed by the fans, who chanted Pedri's name at the Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid. As Barcelona continues to navigate the challenges of the Champions League and La Liga, Pedri's exceptional abilities will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their success. His impressive defensive work rate, exceptional passing range, and creativity make him an invaluable asset to the team. With his improved fitness and Flick's guidance, Pedri is poised to continue delivering outstanding performances and cementing his status as one of the world's top midfielders.
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