‘Pedri does everything’ – Spanish analyst explains why Barcelona star is the ‘best midfielder in the world’

TL;DR

Spanish analyst Julio Maldonado, known as 'Maldini', claims Pedri is the best midfielder in the world, highlighting his all-around abilities. He emphasizes Pedri's crucial role in the Spanish national team, which leans heavily on Barcelona players.

Key points

Julio Maldonado calls Pedri the best midfielder in the world
Pedri is crucial for the Spanish national team
Fermín López is gaining recognition for his performance
Barcelona's collective system contrasts with Real Madrid's individual reliance
Maldonado advocates for Joan Garcia as the starting goalkeeper

BarcelonaReal MadridSpain

Pedri central midfield of Barcelona and Spain celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Girona FC at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on October 18, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Pedri is currently the best midfielder in the world, according to analyst Julio Maldonado, 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 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 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 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 , but I think it’s going to be Unai Simón,” he admitted. Defensively, Maldini is pushing for to make the plane. Garcia had a “spectacular season” and has the tactical flexibility to play both in the center and at fullback.

Q&A

Why does Julio Maldonado consider Pedri the best midfielder in the world?

Maldonado believes Pedri excels in recovering the ball, organizing the team, and playing effectively in various midfield roles.

What impact does Pedri have on the Spanish national team?

Pedri is seen as the engine of the Spanish national team, which is increasingly relying on a Barcelona-inspired core for success.

Who is Fermín López and how is he related to Pedri's performance?

Fermín López is a rising player praised by Maldonado for his competitiveness and impact on the left wing, complementing Pedri's contributions in midfield.

‘Pedri does everything’ – Spanish analyst explains why Barcelona star is the ‘best midfielder in the world’

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

Related Articles

NFL told the Jets, Raiders, Titans, Dolphins and Cardinals what they think of rebuilds. And it's not good.

Every sentence in this recap sounds more absurd than the last: White Sox sweep Royals, push past .500

Victor Wembanyama's comments about "ragebaiting" reveal the Timberwolves' strategy

Hurricanes Eastern Conference Final Schedule set—sort of

Ben Brown delivers another stellar start, tossing 4 shutout innings in Cubs’ 2-0 win to snap skid

Daytona State rallies for 2nd women's golf national title in 3 years

More from Sports