Real Madrid Confidencial Pedri has his time at Real Madrid 'Etched in his memory': 'Wearing that jersey...'
The FC Barcelona midfielder has once again recalled when he tried out for Real Madrid and was rejected
Pedri never forgets that episode in Valdebebas. The current leader of Barcelona's midfield once again recalled his failed trial with Real Madrid in 2018. That moment marked his career and, years later, it remains a topic of conversation.
"It was strange. Real Madrid told me I wasn't up to the level and I went home," he confessed in a recent interview. His words reflect what he felt at the time: surprise, frustration, and also a sense of relief.
A trial that didn't go well
At 15 years old, Pedri was one of the most promising talents at Juventud Laguna. His talent caught the attention of the white scouts and he traveled to the capital in February 2018.
The experience didn't turn out as he expected. When he arrived, the facilities were covered in snow and he could barely train. After a few days, the decision was clear: he wouldn't continue at the club.
"They told me I wasn't at the level. That they'd keep watching me. But at that moment I understood it wasn't my place," said the Tenerife native.
Pedri has said on several occasions how strange it felt to wear Real Madrid's kit. "I'd always worn Barça's. Putting it on didn't feel natural to me," he explained.
Even years later, in different interviews, he has repeated that he's grateful for that rejection. "I thank the person who told me no. If not, maybe I wouldn't be at the club I've always wanted to play for."
From Las Palmas to Camp Nou
In May 2018, he signed for UD Las Palmas's youth academy. A year later, he debuted with the first team at just 16 years old. His rise was meteoric.
In September 2019, Barcelona completed his signing for up to €22 million. He officially arrived at Camp Nou in July 2020. Since then, he has become a key piece of the team and an undisputed international with Spain.
Today, Pedri acknowledges that that "no" was a boost. "At first you don't like being rejected, but then you use it as motivation. I'm where I want to be," he said.
The story could have been different. But that young man whom Real Madrid didn't see as ready is now one of the great idols of the eternal rival.
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