Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has claimed that midfielder Pedri reminds him of club legend Andres Iniesta.

Pedri was among multiple players who shined for Barca in its 4-0 La Liga win against Athletic Bilbao. Barca sure entered the match with an aim to avenge its Copa del Rey defeat to Athletic Bilbao earlier in the year. More so, Barca had dire difficulties before in breaking down the Basque side’s 4-4-2 setup.

Overall, Pedri wound up being a catalyst for Barca in Xavi’s prototypical 4-3-3 formation in the contest. The Spanish international simply had his way in conducting play alongside both Sergio Busquets and Gavi in Barca’s midfield. From the crucial progressive passes to the seven ground duels won, Athletic Bilbao had an arduous time in containing his presence on the pitch.

In speaking after the match, Xavi took some time to laud Pedri, where he brought up his longtime teammate.

“Beyond the shot, which is a detail, is how he understands the game, how he goes between the lines, how he goes behind the backs of the pivots,” Xavi said. “He's a marvel. He reminds me a lot of Andres Iniesta. I haven't seen many talents like that.”

Of course, if there is one former player who was well familiar with just how Iniesta anchored play in the midfield during his prime days, it sure is Xavi. Whether it was at Barca or with the Spanish national team, Xavi and Iniesta shared the pitch a multitude of times, as their elegant way of continually progressing play upfield was a sight to see.

Pedri responded to the notable claim made by Xavi following Barca's 4-1 La Liga win over Valencia, as the Spanish manager noted that there is “no player in the world with as much talent as Pedri.” And more so, the Barca midfielder is much pleased with the club’s results as of late.

“There is a lot of talent in the world of football and I have to work hard to be someone in football,” Pedri said.

“It is true that we are working very well, that we have a lot to gain. The coach gives us a lot and gives us advice both on and off the field. We are seeing the results.”

As it stands, Barca sits at fourth place in the La Liga standings behind Real Madrid, Sevilla and Real Betis. Barca trails third place side Real Betis by a mere one point in the league table, although the Catalan side does have a game in hand.

At this stage in the league campaign, Xavi is not counting out Barca from possibly pulling off a notable run to the top of the table.

“At the moment we are not ruling anything out, knowing that Madrid is strong,” Xavi said. “We have to climb positions. We are still fourth and we have to go to third. If it's enough for us.

“We have a quiet week ahead to prepare for the match against Elche.”

Barcelona has continued to turn around its form in all competitions. The Catalan side has scored four goals in each of its last three matches in both La Liga and UEFA Europa League play, including its convincing 4-2 win over Atletico Madrid.

For now, Barcelona will alternate between La Liga and Europa League fixtures for its next four matches, which include its away league clash against Elche. Pedri and company will look to extend the club’s run of quality performances in this upcoming fixture.