Spain must be the only country where Pedri and Gavi are criticised and underestimated simply because they play for Barça.

In the modern era of Spanish football, it feels almost unthinkable that two of the brightest young midfielders in the world — Pedri González and Gavi Páez — would face criticism within their own country. Yet, that is exactly what continues to unfold. Despite their extraordinary talent and relentless consistency for both club and country, the pair often find themselves doubted or dismissed, not because of their performances, but largely because they wear the Blaugrana shirt.

Pedri and Gavi have become the heartbeat of Barcelona’s midfield, a partnership that embodies the club’s long tradition of technical mastery and tactical intelligence. Still only 21 and 20 years old respectively, they already carry themselves like veterans, dictating the tempo of matches with a composure that belies their age. And yet, in Spain, they are often judged far more harshly than their peers in other clubs.

The criticism stems from more than just football. The Barça–Madrid rivalry fuels much of the discourse, with players from Barcelona often scrutinized more heavily in Spanish media, while Real Madrid’s young stars are praised almost unconditionally. Pedri and Gavi have fallen victim to this environment, where every misplaced pass or off day is magnified, while their brilliance is sometimes overlooked.

But the numbers and performances tell a very different story. Last season, both players were instrumental in Barcelona’s revival. Pedri’s vision, control, and ability to break lines made him the creative hub, while Gavi’s tireless energy, pressing, and aggression brought balance and bite to midfield. Together, they formed a duo that not only competed but dominated against the strongest opponents in La Liga and Europe.

This season, the duo has taken another step forward. Pedri, fully fit again after previous injury setbacks, looks sharper and more decisive. His passing range has expanded, and his ability to dictate rhythm makes Barcelona’s attacks flow seamlessly. Gavi, meanwhile, has added maturity to his game — still aggressive and intense, but increasingly intelligent with his positioning and decision-making. Flick’s arrival has only enhanced their roles, with both players trusted to anchor the new system.

And while critics in Spain look for faults, opponents on the pitch know their true worth. Even referees and controversial figures like Hernández Hernández — often accused of decisions against Barcelona — could not stop the duo from dictating the game in midfield. Their influence is such that no tactical plan can ignore them, no opposition manager can underestimate them, and no match can bypass their energy.

Pedri’s elegance continues to draw comparisons to Andrés Iniesta, while Gavi’s ferocity and will to fight remind many of a young Xavi Hernández. But perhaps the most important aspect of their rise is that they are carving their own legacy. These are not players living in the shadow of legends; they are building a new midfield dynasty for Barcelona.

The irony is clear: outside Spain, fans and analysts rave about Pedri and Gavi, recognizing them as two of the finest midfield prospects in world football. But within their own country, debates persist about whether they are “overhyped” or “favored by the media.” Such narratives ignore the evidence of their consistent performances and the impact they have already made at the highest level.

For Barcelona, their value cannot be overstated. At a time when the club is rebuilding and searching for stability, Pedri and Gavi provide both quality and identity. They are not only carrying the team forward but also keeping alive the tradition of a midfield-led Barça, something that has defined the club for decades.

Spain may continue to criticize, but as long as Pedri and Gavi keep delivering for Barcelona, the rest of the world will watch in admiration. Perhaps, in time, even their harshest critics will have to admit that these two young men are not just the future of Barça, but also the future of Spanish football.

For now, though, Pedri and Gavi can let their football speak louder than the noise. The doubters may remain, but their performances week after week are writing a story that cannot be denied.