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Pedri’s family legacy fuels Barcelona career

vnexpress.net · 10 September 2026
Pedri’s family legacy fuels Barcelona career
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In Spain’s Canary Islands, Pedri González’s grandfather ran a Barcelona supporters club and instilled in him a lifelong passion for the team.

The grandfather vehemently opposed Real Madrid, even refusing to disembark a plane in Madrid during a layover to avoid setting foot in the city. He attended a crucial 1991-1992 match where Tenerife defeated Real Madrid, a moment celebrated by the family.

Pedri later faced rejection from Real Madrid’s youth academy, but ultimately joined FC Barcelona to the delight of his family and friends. He recalled humble beginnings with his teammates, struggling to afford proper food while playing for Las Palmas, and bonding over shared hardship. The young player remembered his shock and joy when Barcelona officially offered him a place on their team. Upon arriving at Barcelona, Pedri was awestruck to meet Lionel Messi during his first training session.

Messi and other veteran players like Sergio Busquets and Gerard Piqué quickly made him feel welcome, easing his initial nervousness. Coach Ronald Koeman eventually confirmed that Pedri would stay with the club, fulfilling a lifelong dream rooted in his family’s fervent support for Barcelona.

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