By Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe,Samuel Obour
Copyright yen
Paul Scholes has revealed his new favourite footballer following Barcelona’s Champions League victory over NewcastleThe Manchester United legend overlooked players from his beloved Red Devils, instead handing the honour to a Barca starThe player in question has also earned a spot on the shortlist for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, set for Monday, September 22
Paul Scholes, one of Manchester United’s greatest midfielders of all time, seems to have found a new football crush, and it is not from Old Trafford.
The 50-year-old was full of admiration for Barcelona star Pedri after the Spanish giants’ UEFA Champions League opener against Newcastle United on Thursday, September 18.
Barcelona sealed a 2-1 win in England, thanks to a brace from Marcus Rashford, who is currently on loan from Man United.
Anthony Gordon pulled one back late on, but it proved nothing more than consolation as the Catalan side started their European campaign on the right note.
Scholes hails Pedri’s midfield masterclass
Despite his deep ties with United, Scholes appeared unimpressed with the current squad at Old Trafford and even the broader Premier League pool.
Instead, his focus shifted to 22-year-old Pedri, who orchestrated Barcelona’s midfield alongside Frenkie de Jong.
Scholes captured the moment by sharing a photo of Pedri on Instagram with the caption: “My new favourite player.”
Check Scholes’ post on Instagram:
It was a clear nod to the youngster’s commanding performance, one United desperately lacked in their own midfield.
Watch Pedri’s display against Newcastle:
The Spanish international controlled the tempo of the game, completing 84 passes at 91 percent accuracy.
He delivered 14 passes into the final third, created a big chance, and won nine duels, more than any player on the pitch.
His season numbers add further weight, ranking in the 99th percentile for progressive passes and 97th for carries, according to One Football.
Supporters across the globe also showered praise on the Barcelona playmaker.
@mindsmattersmd wrote:
“Pedri is a genius without the flash, and that’s his personality. He kinda reminds me of Nedved: ruthlessly efficient. He’s a midfield general🙌🏿🙌🏿”
@Farboyweb3 added:
“Pedri is not just the best midfielder in the world, he’s the best player itw.”
Barcelona supporter @BENFLUENCE_ said:
“We are so lucky to see him play.”
Other comments followed in the same tone, with fans calling him “a top player,” “GOAT of midfield,” and even praising his unmatched football IQ.
Pedri’s fine form comes at the right time, as he is among the nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or Awards scheduled for Monday, September 22, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, per UEFA.com.
Although Ousmane Dembele, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha are tipped as favourites, Pedri is expected to feature prominently.
Before the glittering ceremony, though, the young maestro will turn his attention back to La Liga as Barcelona take on Getafe this weekend.
Pedri hails Real Madrid’s Bellingham
YEN.com.gh earlier reported that Barcelona’s midfield gem, Pedri, showered praise on a Real Madrid rival ahead of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign.
The Spaniard singled out Jude Bellingham, describing him as exceptional, with a rare blend of physical strength and technical brilliance that makes him a nightmare opponent.
Source: YEN.com.gh
