If there is a player who is shining brightly at Barça this season, it is Pedri. The Canary Islander has regained his best form under Hansi Flick, becoming the team's engine and one of the main offensive references. His vision of the game, ability to connect with teammates, and leadership on the field have been essential for Barça to compete at the highest level.
He is the second player with the most minutes played in the entire squad, only behind Jules Koundé. His endurance and consistency have been key in a Barça that has found in him its compass in the midfield. Hansi Flick has been able to enhance his strengths, giving him the freedom to create and creating an environment where the Canary Islander can display all his talent.
Guardiola Dreams of Him to Replace De Bruyne
Pedri's soccer has not only won over the fans but also Pep Guardiola. According to various reports, the Manchester City coach is completely won over with the Canary Islander's play style. His tactical intelligence, ability to connect with teammates, and control of the game's pace are reminiscent of the great midfielders who have marked the Guardiola era, like Xavi or Andrés Iniesta.
With the need to renew the squad for the next season, City would be willing to make a significant investment to sign Pedri. The possible departure of De Bruyne, who has been key in the citizen project over the last decade, will force the English club to look for a reliable replacement. In this sense, the young Barça talent has become Guardiola's main target to strengthen the midfield.
The Other Barça Player That Interests Manchester City
But Pedri is not the only Barça player that interests City. According to 'El Nacional', Pep Guardiola also has Raphinha on his radar. The Brazilian is having a spectacular season, with numbers that place him among the best players in Europe.
With 27 goals and 21 assists in all competitions, Raphinha has reached record figures. His connection with Lamine and Pedri is one of the reasons why Barça is fighting for everything. Therefore, it is not surprising that Pep Guardiola wants him on his team, seeing in him an ideal option to strengthen his attack for the next season.
He Is Key in the Project
Despite Manchester City's interest, Barça has no intention of letting Raphinha go. The club considers him a key player in the project and wants him to continue being one of their attacking references. Moreover, the blaugrana board is already working on a renewal that extends his contract beyond 2027.
Barça knows that Raphinha is a differential footballer and that finding a replacement of his level in the market would be a complicated task. Therefore, the club's priority is to ensure his continuity and continue betting on a project in which both he and Pedri are two of the essential pieces.