Barcelona starlet Pedri won the prestigious individual award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The Kopa Trophy is an individual prize for the best performing player under the age of 21. France Football is in charge of handing out the award, presenting the award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony every year. Barcelona star Pedri won this year’s prize thanks to his incredible campaign with Barcelona and Spain national team.
Pedri has so far featured in 56 games for Barca’s senior team this year. He was an integral part of Spain’s squad in the Euro 2020 tournament. After the continental tournament, he starred for Spain’s Olympic team and won the silver medal in the Tokyo games.
According to SPORT, Lionel Messi gave three of his votes for the Kopa Trophy to Pedri. The Ballon d’Or winner placed Nuno Mendes and Jude Bellingham in the next two places.
The teenage midfielder thanked Lionel Messi after receiving the prestigious award on Monday.
“Messi has helped me a lot, both on and off the pitch. I appreciate everything I’ve learned from him.” He said (via SPORTbible)
“Winning these awards is a source of pride and makes you want to keep working to do better.
“The key to adapting myself so quickly at Barça has been the captains with their help.
“I have also been a huge fan my entire life. I am looking forward to entering the pitch with Xavi as the coach, who has very clear ideas.
“There are talented young players in the squad. Barça are doing things well.”
Pedri is currently recovering from an injury, and he is expected to stay out of action until January. The Spain international has not been able to play under Xavi. However, many observers believe he will be a cornerstone of Barca’s lineup under the club legend.
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