Barcelona midfielder admits team ‘not good enough’ to compete in Champions League

Barcelona’s lacklustre display against Bayern Munich saw them fall to a horrific 3-0 defeat in front of their home crowd. It was one of the Catalans’ worst performances of the season and has put Xavi Hernandez under immense pressure.

Pedri started the game in midfield and was one of the team’s better players on the night. He played up to the hour mark, after which Xavi decided to rest him in view of the hectic schedule ahead. The youngster spoke to the press after the game and reflected on his team’s performance amongst other topics.

Pedri first said that knowing the result of Inter Milan’s game had a profound impact on their performance. The Canary Islander acknowledged that the side were not motivated and said:

“It was a difficult game, we already knew the result of the Inter game and maybe we didn’t come out with the same motivation.”

The former Golden Boy winner then elaborated on the Blaugrana’s flaws and the areas where they needed to improve in order to be competitive at the highest level once again.

“We have to be more calm with the ball. Sometimes we rush and lose a lot of possessions.”

Pedri did not mince his words as he openly announced the truth that was conveniently dodged all these days. Yet, he believed that they had the ability to return to the highest level

“We are a very young team and we have a lot of room for improvement. It’s clear that we’re not good enough to compete in the Champions League.”

When asked what the side currently lack, the teenage sensation said: “We have to get better at many things to be able to compete. We lack many things. One of the things we need to improve is decision making and calmness with the ball, and some physical aspects.”

Despite the team’s shambolic performance, fans stayed back at Camp Nou to cheer on the Azulgranas and show their support. Pedri was taken aback by the love from the people and made a special mention of it.

“First of all, I want to thank the fans. Every day they are with us no matter what. We want to give them victories and titles, that’s why we went out to thank them when the game was over. Thank you very much fans!”

For a club of Barcelona’s stature to not make it out of the group for two successive years is unacceptable and the youngster conceded to the same when asked if it was a failure.

“Of course, this is a failure. Barça always have to go beyond the group stage and fight to win the Champions League.”

Source: BarçaTV+