English Premier League
Pedri Gonzalez honoured in Tegueste after Spain’s World Cup triumph
Pedri Gonzalez has returned to his home town of Tegueste in Tenerife to celebrate Spain’s World Cup victory, just hours before joining Barcelona’s pre-season preparations.
Hundreds of local residents gathered in San Marcos Square to welcome the 23-year-old Barcelona midfielder. The crowd was surrounded by Barcelona and Spain shirts, as well as some bearing Tegueste’s name, while many children wore tops with “Pedri” printed on the back.
Pedri appeared on the balcony of the town hall alongside members of his family and close friends as supporters applauded and chanted his name. The event held particular significance for the player because it brought him back to the place where his football ambitions first took shape, according to Spanish newspaper Sport.
The midfielder reflected on his childhood while addressing the crowd, pointing out that the square where he was being celebrated was the same place where he used to play football with friends.
“When I was playing with my friends in the square, it was impossible to dream that I would win the World Cup,” he said.
Pedri also spoke about the sacrifices involved in reaching the highest level of the sport. He began pursuing his ambition at a young age, meaning he sometimes missed out on time with his family and friends.
“There are many things that people do not see, but they are difficult moments that you have to go through if one day you want to become a footballer,” he added.
Despite establishing himself on the world stage, Pedri said his connection with Tegueste remains central to his identity.
“I will always carry the name of my town with pride,” he said.
Pedri explained that growing up in Tegueste had helped shape both his character and his career. He remains proud of the place where he was raised and of the values he learned there.
The Barcelona player also recalled the experience of Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina. He said he entered the match aware of what he could contribute to the team, while also keeping his family in his thoughts.
“I had to run for them and for Spain,” Pedri said.
He described the moment when Ferran Torres scored the goal that helped Spain secure the title. Pedri said he was around 15 metres behind the forward when he saw the ball cross the line, before immediately sprinting towards his team-mates to celebrate.
“I was running and jumping, and I could not believe what I had seen,” he said.
The ceremony also featured a lighter moment when Pedri discussed his haircut and its white colour. He revealed that the style was the result of a “promise” he had made to himself after Spain won the World Cup.
After the tribute, Pedri said goodbye to the people of Tegueste and travelled to Barcelona to begin pre-season under manager Hansi Flick. He will join the other internationals whose return to training was delayed: Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Jules Kounde and Dani Olmo.
Pedri is preparing to start his seventh season with Barcelona. At the age of 23, he does so as a world champion with Spain.
