Pedri wants Messi back at Barcelona

Spain and Barcelona midfielder Pedri has enjoyed a stellar beginning to his career at the Camp Nou - and has been a key part of his side’s resurgence under new boss Xavi.

It’s no surprise to see the youngster, who is so often compared to Andres Iniesta, thrive under Iniesta’s old midfield partner.

And although Pedri’s career so far has been full of such mentor figures - including Xavi, Ronald Koeman, Sergio Busquets and Luis Enrique - one in particular stands out.

Pedri played with Lionel Messi during the Argentine’s last season before he departed for Paris, where things have gone less than swimmingly for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner; some have suggested his dwindling fortunes in France might mean a return to the Camp Nou is on the cards.

It’s a hope that Pedri shares.

What has Pedri said?

Talking to La Vanguardia, the teenager spoke of his desire to see Messi return to Barcelona.

“I've had a great time with Leo on the pitch and off it, he's a magnificent person so I hope he can come back,” he said. ”I had fun playing with him and it is a joy to have him as a partner.

“Whenever I can, I watch his matches because you learn a lot by watching the best footballer in the world play, but it's true that when things don't work out for a friend, as I consider him, it hurts a bit.”

Messi will have a year left on his eye-watering contract with Paris Saint-Germain this summer, with the reported option to add a third.

In an attempt to balance the books while returning to domestic and European prominence, Xavi’s Barcelona are largely relying on signing players on free transfers - like Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and possibly Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie.

But when it comes to Leo Messi and Barcelona, it’d be unwise to ever rule anything out.