Pedri feeling the strain as Barcelona labor to victory over Rayo Vallecano
The midfielder admits the team are tired.
Pedri of FC Barcelona during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between FC Barcelona and Newcastle United FC at Spotify Camp Nou Stadium on March 18, 2026, in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Pedri admitted he is feeling the effects of a congested fixture schedule after featuring for Hansi Flick’s side against Rayo on Sunday . A single goal from Ronald Araujo was enough to secure all three points for the Catalans on a day where the players looked visibly tired from their recent efforts.
Pedri spoke to the media afterwards and admitted that playing just days after a crucial Champions League win over Newcastle had been a draining experience. “Your legs feel it after a Champions League match and with this schedule,” he said. “There’s no point in making excuses.
We have to keep adding points; there’s one less matchday and it brings us closer to the top. ” La Liga now pauses for the international break but there’s likely to be little rest for Barca’s players. Pedri will be part of a Spain squad that will take on Serbia and Egypt over the next two weeks.
Barca then return with a really hectic period, facing Atletico in La Liga and the Champions League when domestic action resumes.