Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula One world champion born in Oviedo, has long been a dedicated supporter of Real Madrid. Frequently seen attending matches at the Santiago Bernabéu, he’s even been honored with a symbolic role within the club.
During an interview with DAZN ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, Alonso was posed a lighthearted but thought-provoking question: which Barcelona player would he bring to Madrid, if given the chance?
Alonso responded with a smile and a touch of humor, choosing Pedri. He joked that his reason was strategic – to weaken the rival side. “I’d bring in Pedri to make Barça less strong,” he said, chuckling. “I do that in the PlayStation game, too… and then I keep him on the bench.”
A subtle choice reveals a deeper point
Although some may have anticipated he would select players like Lamine Yamal or Raphinha – both of whom made a major impact this season – Alonso opted for a more understated but crucial figure.
Pedri, who regained form this year, played a major part in Barcelona’s control of matches. His style of play, centered on rhythm and precision, made him key to their success in the middle of the pitch. His performances drew comparisons to iconic players from the club’s past.
This season, Barcelona edged out Real Madrid to secure multiple domestic trophies. Alonso’s tongue-in-cheek response, though humorous, highlighted Pedri’s quiet but powerful role in that success.
What may have seemed like a casual joke pointed to a larger reality: sometimes, the most important player isn’t the one who scores the most, but the one who holds everything together.
