'Ever since Rodri won the Ballon d'Or, things have changed' - Spain star speaks on winning individual award

The Spanish midfielder's dream season with Barcelona has made him a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or.

Pedri was instrumental in Barcelona's season, helping them win the La Liga title over Real Madrid.

Speaking ahead of Spain's Nations League semi-final clash against France, the creative midfielder hinted at his ambitions: "I'm not a player who focuses too much on individual awards.

"Ever since Rodri won the Ballon d'Or, things have changed. Midfielders weren't really considered before. So, why not?"

However, when asked directly about his chances and those of his teammate, Lamine Yamal, Pedri took a more cautious approach: "We're playing a semi-final, and that's the most important thing. I'm proud to be in the conversation. I'll save my vote for when it's all over."

At the end of a dream season, where he won the Spanish Super Cup, La Liga, and the Copa del Rey, Pedri will face a familiar opponent: Kylian Mbappé.

The Spanish midfielder admitted he knows how to handle the French forward: "When you're talking about a player of that calibre, it's hard to say you have the key.

"But so far I've been lucky enough to be able to stop him. Tomorrow, though, he'll be eager to put in a good performance."

"It's going to be tough to stop him, he's one of the best in the world. Winning the Nations League gives you the confidence to win more titles.

"The team wants to bring home another trophy, but the game won't be easy," predicted Pedri, confident that he can win the competition for the second time in his career, via Abola.

Pedri also admitted that he was sought after by Bayern Munich, but reaffirmed his commitment to Barcelona.

Spain and France take to the field at the Stuttgart Arena at 8 pm on Thursday.