FC Barcelona host Paris Saint-Germain at Montjuïc this Wednesday (21:00 CEST) in what will be Luis Enrique's side's first visit to Catalan soil after the thrilling quarter-final tie of the 23/24 Champions League. That season, the 'Culés' took the lead in the first leg in France (2-3), but they were eliminated at the Lluís Companys (1-4) despite starting the match winning.
Ronald Araujo's early dismissal brought down the team then managed by Xavi Hernández. With the precedent of that tie still fresh in the Blaugrana squad, Pedri González made it clear that, although the context of Wednesday's match is totally different, Barça want revenge.
"It was a complicated match (the 1-4) and we want to give that revenge to the fans. The following year you always want what you leave behind. They are one of the best teams in the world and one of the matches you want to play," argued the 'Culé' midfielder.
Pedri is clear: the winner of the Barça-PSG will be the one who controls the midfield
In addition to the elimination in 23/24, Hansi Flick's team also came close to the final last season, where the rival would have been, precisely, Luis Enrique's Paris. In that sense, Pedri made clear the level of the match of matchday 2 which, again, will be held at the Lluís Companys.
"If it's not the best, it's one of the best matches at club level. PSG already showed last season what they are, although we consider ourselves to be the best. It will be a spectacle and we will go to enjoy it on the pitch," explained the Tenerife native.
Regarding the match plan, the '8' has no doubts: the key is to take control of possession and the midfield. "Whoever dominates the centre of the pitch will take a good part of the match. We are a brave team since Flick came."
In this regard, he referred to the comparison with Vitinha and the importance of his work with the ball. "We are players who like to have the ball. We don't like to chase the ball. In the centre of the pitch, we will all have a fundamental role in the team and it will tip the balance," added the Tegueste native.
"It's much better for us a team that plays you like PSG, than one that plays in a low block"
Favoritism in Champions League and his relationship with Luis Enrique
On the other hand, Pedri spoke about his relationship with Luis Enrique. The Asturian was the one who gave him his debut for the national team and the Barça midfielder values his confidence and indications to adapt to the style of 'La Roja', which is very similar to what the 'Culés' and PSG usually propose.
"He asked me to be calm, to enjoy myself, that the more balls I touched, the better for the team," said the 22-year-old about 'Lucho'. He also revealed how Hansi Flick has helped him improve his leadership on the pitch.
"I have changed things, but I wouldn't say a barbarity. The preparation changed and it is totally different. Playing every three days is fun. The calendar is demanding, but you have to adapt." He also added:
"Flick wants me to take a step forward in the dressing room. I have never done it. But I am getting used to it, feeling more important and assuming that role," added a Pedri who, at this moment, sees Barça as a clear candidate for the Champions League title along with Paris, who this season defends its crown.
"The two teams of tomorrow are favorites. It will be one of the best matches, if not the best"
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