Barcelona midfielder Pedri has been one of the best footballers in the world since the start of the 2024-25 season, when Hansi Flick took over as head coach. The German has played a big role in his improvement, although he has helped himself by making changes in his everyday life.
One of the key areas that Pedri has focused on is his diet. Speaking to Fútbol Fiesta (via Sport), he revealed that he has started intermittent fasting, following advice received from Barcelona and Spain teammate Ferran Torres.
“He encouraged me to try it and the truth is that I feel much better since then so, for the moment, I am going to continue with it. I eat two meals a day, lunch and dinner. We have a good breakfast only on matchdays. I only drink water, because it is essential to maintain good hydration.”
“It’s very difficult for me to resist the ham croquettes that my mother makes. I only try them on occasion after a game. I’ll have time to eat as many as I want when I retire!”
Pedri reflects on practises used to avoid injuries
Pedri had struggled a lot with injuries before Flick’s arrival, particularly those involving his hamstrings. However, he has turned a corner over the last 15 months, and he revealed that strength training has played a big part in his ability to avoid suffering strains or tears in his muscles.
“We found the key in the physical preparation that I lacked to try to avoid, as far as possible, injuries. (Strength training) helps to avoid injuries – it is what enhances starts, improves turns… It means that I can enjoy what I like the most: playing football.”
Barcelona will be desperate to ensure that Pedri continues staying fit, as he will be relied upon throughout this season.