Barcelona star Pedri opens up about Ballon d’Or chances ahead of Champions League semifinal

Pedri has been one of the brightest stars of FC Barcelona’s 2024–25 season, and with just two months remaining, the conversation around the best player of the year has intensified. Ahead of the Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan, the Barca midfielder addressed his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo having dominated the award for over a decade, it has become rare for midfielders to claim the Ballon d’Or. However, following Manchester City star Rodri’s win last year, Pedri believes there is now an opportunity for players like him to be recognized. In an interview with UEFA, the Barcelona midfielder reflected on that impact:

“Ever since Rodri won it, it’s become clear that a player who controls the midfield and dictates the tempo of a match can win the Ballon d’Or. I was really happy he won it — not just because of the incredible season he had, but also because I really enjoy playing alongside him with the national team,” Pedri stated.

Beyond winning the Premier League with City, Rodri also played a key role in Spain’s triumph at EURO 2024. “He’s a player who controls the game so well: he wins back possession, attacks, scores goals… he’s everywhere on the pitch,” the Barcelona star added.

Pedri then discussed his own aspirations for the award after an impressive season: “It’s always been my dream to lift the Ballon d’Or, but right now there’s one month left and the focus is on the team — on winning all three titles, which is what really matters. When this month is over, we’ll see if we can start talking about things like that.”

With the Champions League considered one of the most influential trophies in the Ballon d’Or race, Barcelona’s strong position in the tournament could strengthen Pedri’s case if they manage to lift the cup.

Hansi Flick’s impact on Barcelona’s rise

Hansi Flick took over as head coach of FC Barcelona at the start of the 2024–25 season, and since then, the Spanish giants have re-emerged as one of the top teams in the world. When asked about Flick’s influence, Pedri gave an honest reflection on the coach’s leadership:

“It’s a young team, and he’s like a father figure in the sense that he’s always looking out for us. He’s there for you when you’re not playing, always trying to help, and besides being strict — which he absolutely is, and you can tell even from the outside — the side of him you don’t always see is that he’s always there to help you when you’re struggling. He talks to you, asks what’s going on.”