Pedri Makes Lionel Messi Admission During 2026 World Cup

Pedri made a candid admission about Lionel Messi during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Spain and Barcelona midfielder spoke about facing his former club teammate on the international stage.

Pedri admitted that facing Messi is a strange experience. The two played together at Barcelona before Messi left for Inter Miami in 2023.

"It feels weird to see him on the other side," Pedri said. "I learned so much from him at Barça. Now I have to stop him."

Spain faced Argentina in a group-stage match on 22 June 2026. Messi scored once as Argentina won 2-1.

This World Cup is Pedri's second. He played in 2022 as a teenager. Now 23, he is a key starter for Spain.

Messi remains the standard. Pedri grew up watching him. Sharing a pitch with him in a World Cup is a full-circle moment.

Spain still advanced to the knockout stage despite the loss. Pedri played 90 minutes and completed 91% of his passes.

Spain face Germany in the round of 16 on 29 June. Pedri will likely start in midfield alongside Rodri and Gavi.

Pedri said the team learned from the Argentina defeat. "We know what we need to fix," he said. "The knockout games are a new tournament."

Messi and Argentina top their group. A potential semifinal clash between Spain and Argentina remains possible.

Pedri has two goals and one assist in the tournament so far. He is averaging 4.3 key passes per game.

The 2026 World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Pedri has started all three group matches for Spain.

He admitted that Messi's presence still lifts the room. "Even now, when he walks in, everyone notices," Pedri said. "That's what legends do."

Spain will need Pedri at his best to go deep. His ability to control tempo and break lines makes him essential.

Pedri's admission shows respect. But on the pitch, he wants to win. That clash with Messi might not be the last this summer.