"We have to learn from these mistakes and move on" - Pedri addresses Monaco defeat

Barcelona midfielder Pedri said that "it's complicated to get a player sent off so early, especially in Europe", but did not want to give too much importance to the defeat in their Champions League opener against Monaco (2-1).

Pedri described as a ‘communication error’ the play between Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Eric Garcia that ended with the latter being sent off in the 11th minute.

"I don't think it's a step backwards. The team, despite the red card, gave a good account of ourselves. At 1-1 we had chances but the opponent's second goal killed us," said Pedri, who is confident that they will recover well for Sunday's LaLiga clash against Villarreal.

"When you play with one man down, you can feel it in your legs. But the team is feeling strong and I think we'll be at one hundred per cent", said the Canaries midfielder, who asked the fans to “stay calm”, reminding them that the Champions League has only just begun: “We're going to our all in these remaining games”.

Finally, Pedri mentioned the return of striker Ansu Fati, who in Monaco enjoyed his first official minutes since his return to the 'Cules'. "I congratulated him. He's a player I'm very fond of and I'm sure he's going to do very well. What's more, he deserves it because he's a good person," he said. 

 

September 19, 2024