Pedri's ability to control the ball while on the floor with 'breakdancing' skill needs explaining
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Barcelona midfielder Pedri proved he's already one of world football's best midfielders with an outrageous piece of skill in Saturday's 1-0 win over Girona.
The Catalan giants moved six points clear of bitter rivals Real Madrid at the top of La Liga with a professional performance at the Estadi Montilivi.
Pedri scored the only goal of the game just past the hour mark as his influence on this Barcelona team continues to grow.
The 20-year-old, in his 100th game for the club, scored his fifth of the campaign to continue the Blaugrana's stride to a first league title in four years.
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Despite the importance of his goal, it's not what everyone was talking about at the full-time whistle. Pedri managed to bamboozle Miguel Gutierrez with some lovely footwork the Girona defender won't want to watch back.
It looked like the Spain international had overrun the ball and slipped out wide, turning over possession to the home side.
Pedri wasn't willing to give up the cause. He put the outside of his boot on the ball, while lay on the floor, fooling Gutierrez into stepping forward.
The former Las Palmas man got back to his feet to drift away from his opponent with relative ease. Talk about making something out of nothing.
no me canso de ver esto por dios pedri sos mágico pic.twitter.com/NclKdIcrLG
— #8 (@pedristarboy) January 28, 2023
Pedri didn't start the game but came on in the 26th minute after Ousmane Dembele suffered an injury. The France winger has been in fine form over the last few weeks, with his departure a blow.
Barcelona manager Xavi discussed Dembele's injury at full-time, with a huge Europa League clash against Manchester United on the cards next month.
He said: "Dembele is a difference-maker. I think he’s injured. It’s a real shame. He felt something in his quads.
"Dembele was playing so well, giving so much for us. Let’s hope his injury is the least severe possible. His injury turns our plans upside down."
Xavi also paid tribute to Pedri, who did manage to be the difference maker when called upon. He continued: "Pedri is a differential.
"He looks between the lines and attacks the spaces. Add goals to that, and we are talking about one of the best midfielders in the world at 20-years-old."
Barcelona return to action against Real Betis on Wednesday evening.
