Pedri is currently the best midfielder in the world, [according to analyst Julio Maldonado](https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/seleccion/maldini-moja-pedri-mejor-centrocampista-porra-convocatoria-aliniacion-seleccion-espanola-130236738), better known as “Maldini.” He is the engine behind a Spanish national team that is increasingly leaning on a Barcelona-inspired core.
“I think he’s the best midfielder in the world,” is Maldini’s verdict. “Pedri does everything, he recovers the ball, he organizes the team, he can play near the area, he can play at the base of the midfield.”
[Luis de la Fuente has picked nine players in his preliminary list](/barcelona-la-liga/120301/eight-barcelona-stars-join-lamine-yamal-on-spains-world-cup-2026-preliminary-list) for the FIFA World Cup, and a majority are expected to make the final cut. “Maldini” says it’s clear that the blaugrana will once again be decisive in Spain’s chances.
While Pedri remains the crown jewel, praised by “Maldini” for his ability to recover, organize, and operate across the entire pitch, the rise of Fermín López hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“Maldini” prefers the Masia graduate over regular call-ups like Álex Baena, pointing to Fermín’s recent impact on the left wing and his relentless motor.
“He is an ultracompetitive player,” Maldini noted, adding that even when a game is already won, the midfielder “keeps fighting, keeps working… what Fermín is doing is amazing.”
Following Barcelona’s recent Clásico victory and subsequent league title, the analyst argued that Real Madrid has failed because they rely on individual moments rather than a collective system. He pointed out that while Hansi Flick has instilled a functional, pressing identity at Barcelona, Madrid’s players haven’t adapted to a collective style.
“Maldini” has also joined the chorus championing a change under the posts, even if he doesn’t think the manager will pull the trigger.
“For me, the starter should be Joan Garcia, but I think it’s going to be Unai Simón,” he admitted.
Defensively, Maldini is pushing for Eric Garcia to make the plane. Garcia had a “spectacular season” and has the tactical flexibility to play both in the center and at fullback.
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