(foto: Getty Images)
Toni Kroos has praised Pedri as “the best midfielder in the world,” highlighting his elegance, intelligence, and importance to Barcelona ahead of El Clasico.
Recently retired Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has named Pedri as the best midfielder in the world, offering high praise for the Barcelona star ahead of the decisive El Clasico title clash at Montjuïc next week.
Speaking on his podcast, Kroos underlined Pedri’s unique influence on the pitch. “Pedri is one of those players you really miss when he’s not playing. It’s not just about goals or assists—he brings solutions,” Kroos said. “You don’t always have to beat opponents with a pass, but Pedri is one of the few midfielders who can outplay someone even in tight spaces.”
Kroos even suggested Pedri is more crucial to Barcelona than their attacking stars. “In my opinion, he’s perhaps even more important than Lamine Yamal, Raphinha or Lewandowski. These players decide games, but that’s probably because Pedri is currently the best in the world in his role.”
Reflecting on his personal experience playing against Pedri, Kroos added: “I always felt he didn’t work quickly—then he starts dribbling and you think, ‘Well, at least he’ll make a mistake,’ but that doesn’t happen. It’s not like Messi, where you immediately see the explosive speed. With Pedri, it seems like he’s not fast, but he actually is—his movements are incredibly smooth.”
Kroos concluded with a heartfelt compliment: “I love players who not only play well but also do it with elegance and grace—and that’s what really sets Pedri apart.”