Wojciech Szczesny names 22-year-old Barcelona midfielder as his pick for the Ballon d’Or

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BARCELONA, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 02: Wojciech Szczesny of FC Barcelona celebrates with teammate Lamine Yamal following the team's victory the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and Deportivo Alaves at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on February 02, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

The quality of players at FC Barcelona remains undeniable, and that is exactly why this squad is so competitive. Despite the young age of most players in this team, their ability on the ball is truly exceptional already. Coupled with Hansi Flick’s tactics, this Barcelona team looks truly scary.

However, even in the very best teams, there are always certain players who can be considered as standout performers. For this particular Barcelona team, there is simply no denying the influence and impact of stars like Lamine Yamal and Pedri.

The latter has been regarded by many as the best player in his position this season, with even Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos acknowledging that previously. However, the praise for the young star keeps on coming from both rivals and teammates alike.

Wojciech Szczesny picks his Ballon d’Or winner

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 11: Pedri of FC Barcelona is challenged by Lucas Vazquez of Real Madrid during the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on May 11, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Pedri in action for Barcelona against Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Recently, Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny commended the youngster and even showered him with praise. He even went as far as to say that Pedri was the single most impressive player that he has seen in his career.

Moreover, as highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, he also claimed that Pedri would be his pick as the best player of the year when asked about the Ballon d’Or during an interview:

“If I were asked who has been the best player this year, I would personally say Pedri. He embodies the kind of spectacle football should offer and inspires young people to play the sport.”

Barcelona to return to training soon

He also praised the young midfielder further and highlighted his ability to always retain possession and how he almost never gives the ball away:

“There are players who don’t lose the ball, but they play conservatively. Pedri, on the other hand, starts dribbling even when opponents are all over him. He plays through the middle, and you know that when you pass him the ball, it’s in safe hands.”

As for both Pedri and Szczesny, the return to training at Barcelona will not have to wait much longer. Along with them, the rest of the squad is expected to return as well and Hansi Flick will be eagerly awaiting the chance to assess his players again. In other news, the Polish goalkeeper also recently extended his stay at the club for two more years.

Tags Ballon d'Or FC Barcelona Pedri Wojciech Szczesny