FC Barcelona are currently preparing for one of the most important games of this season as they are set to face their arch-rivals Real Madrid in their next game. After playing their UEFA Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain last Tuesday, the Blaugranes got four days to prepare for this El Clasico, which is scheduled to be played on this Sunday.
On Friday, there was a media day, and [several players talked to some media outlets](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/barcelona-star-gavi-sends-fierce-message-to-real-madrid-ahead-of-el-clasico/) after training. One of these players was the midfielder Pedri, who, as [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261023/1004242440/pedri-preparo-clasico-partido.html) has reported, talked to the Latin American channel DSports.
The Spanish midfielder assured that he was preparing for this match against the Merengues as he would prepare for any other game:
**“I prepare for the Clásico like any other match, following my usual routine, although I’m aware of how important it is for us. I stick to my normal routine and don’t do anything special just because we’re facing Real Madrid.”**
During this talk with the South American outlet, the Canarian praised the Barcelona legend Lionel Messi and expressed his wish that he had got more time to play with him:
**“For me, Messi is the greatest player in history. I know some people have different opinions, but based on what I’ve seen with my own eyes, nobody comes close to him. I was lucky enough to play alongside him for a whole year, but that year felt far too short. I wish I could have spent many more years with him. He deserves a farewell ceremony that reflects his greatness at FC Barcelona.”**
Pedri went on to highlight that Argentina is his second team because of La Pulga:
**“Argentina holds a special place in my heart because of Leo Messi. I’ve supported him since I was a child, and whenever Spain were knocked out of tournaments, I supported Argentina because of the love I’ve had for Leo over the years. In Argentina, I support Newell’s Old Boys because of Messi.”**
Pedri is going to be a key player for FC Barcelona in this upcoming game against Real Madrid. Hopefully, he will put in a good performance in that game, and help the Blaugranes return to winning ways after the defeat to PSG.