According to a report by Barca Universal on Friday, October 30, 2026, Barcelona midfielder Pedri has come under criticism following his performance against Real Madrid in El Clasico, with Spanish journalist Manolo Lama questioning his physical condition and suggesting it has affected his effectiveness.

The criticism follows Barcelona’s consecutive defeats against Paris Saint Germain and their domestic rivals, increasing pressure on Hansi Flick’s side to respond positively when they face Deportivo Alaves.

Several players have attracted scrutiny after the disappointing results, but Pedri has received particular attention because of concerns surrounding his recent displays.

Speaking about the 23 year old, Lama stressed that maintaining excellent physical condition is essential for players competing at the highest level. He argued that Pedri’s current physical struggles could be affecting the qualities that have made him such an important figure at Barcelona.

"To be a top class player, you have to be in top physical shape," the journalist explained.

Lama suggested that the midfielder has been dealing with physical difficulties that have influenced his technical performance, particularly his normally impressive passing accuracy.

"I've seen him struggling with a physical problem. When he has a physical problem, his passing accuracy isn't the same," he added.

Pedri is central to Barcelona’s midfield because of his ability to control possession, create chances and dictate the tempo of matches. Any decline in his physical condition could therefore have consequences for the team's overall performance.

Lama also described the midfielder as looking sluggish and tired within the opening 10 minutes of matches. He referenced Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios while discussing how fatigue can affect a player's sharpness and decision making.

Meanwhile, questions have also emerged about Pedri’s position in the Spanish national team ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

Presenter Juanma Castano suggested that the Barcelona midfielder may have already lost his guaranteed starting place with Spain.

However, Castano believes his situation at club level is considerably different. He argued that it would be extremely difficult for Pedri to lose his place in Barcelona’s starting lineup because of the importance he continues to have within Flick’s team.

The midfielder will now be hoping to silence his critics by returning to his best form as Barcelona look to recover from their recent setbacks.