According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday October 23, 2026, Barcelona midfielder Pedri believes Lionel Messi deserves a grand farewell from the club, describing the Argentine legend as the greatest footballer of all time.

The Spaniard reflected on his experience playing alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and expressed his wish that they had shared the pitch for longer.

Messi recently visited Spain to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. During the visit, he spoke warmly about his time at Barcelona, although his strained relationship with president Joan Laporta remains a significant issue.

Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Messi continues to command enormous respect among Barcelona’s current players. Pedri made his admiration clear during a recent interview ahead of the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid.

The midfielder insisted that Messi stands above every other player in Barcelona’s history and football generally. He also recalled how amazed he was by the Argentine’s extraordinary ability when he first arrived at the club as a teenager.

Pedri joined Barcelona at 17 and had the opportunity to observe Messi’s remarkable technique at close quarters. He explained that the forward could make several touches in the time another player needed for just three.

The Spaniard also remembered how Messi could remain dangerous even when closely marked by multiple opponents. According to Pedri, teammates would still pass the ball to him because of their confidence in his ability to produce something special.

Pedri believes Messi deserves a memorable send-off after leaving Barcelona in 2021 without the farewell many supporters felt he warranted. The midfielder also recalled their strong understanding on the pitch, describing playing alongside the Argentine as remarkably easy.

However, Pedri admitted that their time together was too brief. He said he felt fortunate to have played with Messi for one season but would have loved to share the pitch with him for much longer.

Pedri will now turn his attention to the Clasico, where he is expected to play an important role as Barcelona aim to maintain their perfect La Liga record.