Spanish journalist criticises Barcelona maestro after El Clasico defeat: ‘Have seen him struggling with physical problem’

Spanish journalist criticises Barcelona maestro after El Clasico defeat: ‘Have seen him struggling with physical problem’ Barcelona midfielder Pedri has come under criticism following his disappointing performance against Real Madrid in El Clasico, with Spanish journalist Manolo Lama questioning whether the 23-year-old is currently in the physical condition required to perform at his best.  The comments come during a difficult period for Hansi Flick’s side, who have suffered consecutive defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and their biggest domestic rivals. Barcelona are keen to put those results behind them and redirect their attention towards their upcoming meeting with Deportivo Alaves.  However, the performances of several players have attracted scrutiny, with Pedri among those facing questions after failing to produce his usual influence in the recent defeats. Manolo Lama identifies physical concerns behind Pedri’s struggles Speaking about the midfielder’s recent displays, Lama suggested that physical condition has become an important factor in evaluating his performances.  He believes Pedri’s effectiveness is closely connected to his ability to maintain intensity throughout a match. “To be a top-class player, you have to be in top physical shape,” he said. Pedri has been criticised for his El Clasico performance. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) He also suggested that the Barcelona midfielder has been struggling to maintain his usual technical precision when dealing with physical difficulties. “I’ve seen him struggling with a physical problem. When he has a physical problem, his passing accuracy isn’t the same,” he pointed out. Lama’s assessment is particularly significant because passing accuracy, awareness and the ability to control the rhythm of a game are among Pedri’s most important qualities.  When those elements are affected, Barcelona can lose an important source of creativity and control in midfield. Pedri compared with Pablo Barrios over physical intensity Lama went further in his criticism, describing Pedri as a player who ‘looks sluggish’ and ‘tired in the first 10 minutes of the match’ . The journalist’s concern centred on the midfielder’s apparent lack of sharpness, particularly when games reach their decisive stages.  Pedri’s place in the Spanish squad is not certain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) To explain his point, Lama brought Pablo Barrios into the discussion, using the Atletico Madrid midfielder as a comparison when discussing how fatigue can affect a footballer’s decision-making. “When a player gets tired, you lose your spark; your mind can’t keep up with your legs, and it shows.” Pedri’s World Cup position also comes under scrutiny The discussion also extended beyond Barcelona, with Juanma Castano raising questions about Pedri’s standing in the Spanish national team. The presenter suggested that the midfielder’s position in the national team’s starting XI is no longer guaranteed, claiming that “Pedri has already lost his place in the starting line-up at the World Cup.” However, Castano distinguished between the situation with Spain and Pedri’s importance at Barcelona.  While acknowledging the possibility of changes in the national team hierarchy, he considered it “impossible” for the midfielder to lose his place at the Catalan club, given that “he usually plays well.” Source: SPORT