Barcelona midfielder Pedri has described Lionel Messi’s current form at the 2026 World Cup as “crazy”, admitting that he dreams of meeting his former teammate in a thrilling final. The Spanish star is focused on his national team’s round of 16 clash against Portugal, yet he cannot help but imagine a potential showdown with the Argentine icon he still considers the greatest footballer of all time.

Messi’s status as the undisputed GOAT remains unchallenged. Despite the passage of time, the Inter Miami captain continues to astound fans and players alike with his performances on the global stage. Pedri, who once shared the pitch with Messi at Camp Nou, believes no one in history can match the Argentine’s level of greatness.

“I am enjoying watching him. I already enjoyed playing and training with him every day. What he’s doing is crazy,” Pedri said in an interview with AS. “The things he’s capable of doing at his age can only come from his incredible quality. For me, he is the best player in history.”

Pedri also admitted that he dreams of facing Argentina in the World Cup final. Although Spain faces a tough road ahead, beginning with a high-stakes match against Portugal, he cannot help but imagine the ultimate showdown with his idol. “That dream would be top because it would mean we are in the World Cup final. It would be a good sign,” he said, acknowledging that such a match would be the highlight of his career.

Beyond the World Cup, Pedri reflected on life back at Barcelona under new head coach Hansi Flick. The German tactician has been praised for revitalising the team, and Pedri explained how his role in the side has evolved under Flick’s system. “Above all, he started placing me at the base of the play so I could be more in touch with the ball,” Pedri explained. “It’s true that, for example, Luis Enrique also asked me to drop deep, to touch the ball and feel comfortable there. But Flick changed my position on the pitch and, most importantly, he has given us a winning mentality. That’s what he’s changed – he has transformed the team’s mindset. We have to thank him because he has changed Barca’s mentality.”

Before any potential reunion with Messi can happen, Spain must first overcome a tough Portuguese side led by Paris Saint-Germain’s Vitinha. Pedri was full of admiration for his counterpart, praising his technical control and work rate. “Vitinha is top, especially in his control of the ball and the way he manages the tempo of the match. When I played against him, I was surprised by how much he runs – he’s never still,” Pedri noted. “He always finds the free teammate with his passes, and, as I said, he’s top. One of the best midfielders in the world.”

The highly anticipated battle between Pedri and Vitinha is expected to be one of the defining duels of the round of 16, as both Spain and Portugal aim to secure their place in the quarter-finals.