Pedri delivered another commanding performance as Barcelona defeated Galatasaray 4-1 in Istanbul, helping Hansi Flick’s side take control of their Champions League clash after falling behind.
The midfielder did not get on the scoresheet, but his influence was central to Barcelona’s second-half response.
The Spain international was substituted in the closing minutes, prompting questions about his condition.
However, Pedri clarified after the match that he was not dealing with an injury, explaining that stomach discomfort was the reason behind his request to come off.
The victory also gave him an opportunity to address Barcelona’s attacking form ahead of a demanding run of fixtures against Real Betis, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Pedri explains why Barcelona struggled in the first half
Barcelona dominated possession for long periods against Galatasaray but struggled to make their control count before the break.
Pedri believes the team’s decision-making in the final third was a key reason they failed to create more clear-cut opportunities.
“I think in the first half we were often too hasty with the final pass. We had the ball and saw plenty of space, but we were taking risks with the final pass.
“We should have kept it moving and let the forwards get involved, as we did in the second half. When players up front like Lamine, Fermin, Olmo or Gordon get the ball, they’re decisive.”
Galatasaray’s opening goal made the task more difficult in front of their home supporters, but Barcelona responded with an emphatic second-half display.
“When Galatasaray take the lead in this atmosphere, it’s tricky, but I’ll take the team’s reaction. The second half was spectacular.”
Pedri addresses substitution and attacking form
Pedri also explained why he left the pitch late in the game, making clear that the decision was not related to a muscular problem or another injury.
“My stomach was hurting and I wasn’t feeling too well. It was better to ask to be taken off and let someone else come on to freshen things up,” he explained.
The midfielder was equally confident when discussing Barcelona’s attacking output.
Flick’s side had scored 43 goals in their first 10 competitive matches, offering a strong response to doubts about their finishing.
Pedri’s performance was extremely underrated against Galatasaray. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)
“We’re very confident. There was talk about us lacking a goal-scoring touch, but we’re proving that this squad has it. It’s only the start of the season; let’s keep going.
“I think there’s always speculation, but it’s clear we can score plenty of goals.
“We’ve got plenty of quality players who also come off the bench. The squad is very deep and very good. You can see that,” he explained.
Pedri looks ahead to Barcelona’s crucial fixture run
Barcelona’s victory in Istanbul was an important result, but Pedri knows the team face a significant test of their consistency over the coming weeks.
“We’ve got some very important matches coming up. It’s early in the season, but they’re important. Let’s enjoy them and, above all, let’s win,” he concluded.
With Betis, PSG and Real Madrid next on the agenda, Barcelona will need Pedri’s control and composure in midfield.
His performance against Galatasaray showed why he remains central to Flick’s plans, while his assessment of the first half highlighted the fine margins the team must continue to improve, something that even Flick mentioned in his post-match comments.
Source: Mundo Deportivo