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Pedri names Liverpool heavyweight as the toughest opponent of his career

Barcelona midfielder Pedri was the star guest at Decathlon’s major event held at the Forum in Barcelona, where he shared several personal anecdotes with supporters.

The French sports company organised its largest event to date in Spain on Thursday and Friday, with more than 500 people attending to meet the Canary Islander.

And Pedri was the main attraction for fans, with the Barcelona midfield maestro, who starred against Newcastle earlier this week, also answering questions from the audience.

Virgil van Dijk – Pedri’s toughest opponent

Kicking things off, Pedri was asked to name the defender who has been the most difficult for him to face and the Barcelona superstar had no hesitation in picking Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

“I have to say that he looks big on television, but Van Dijk is even bigger on the pitch. I played against him recently and it is very difficult to get past him,” he said.

The midfielder also reflected on his most difficult moment, which came during his injury struggles, and explained where he found support.

Pedri names Liverpool heavyweight as the toughest opponent of his career

Pedri’s toughest opponent. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

“In my family, who are always there. My worst moment was the period with the injuries. It’s not a specific moment, but those moments. It was difficult, but I trained even harder if I could, and now I’m healthy,” the Spaniard said.

Pedri also recalled the emotions of making his debut for Barcelona’s first team in 2020, saying:

“It was a dream. Since I was a child, I always wore the Barça shirt everywhere, and when you go in and make your debut with what for me is the best team in the world, it is incredible.”

Finally, Pedri explained the meaning behind his characteristic goal celebration:

“I celebrate this way for my father. One day I was having lunch with him at home and I wanted to dedicate the goals to him because he’s always been with me since I was little. Since the whole family wears glasses, we came up with this gesture.”