Pedri (Barcelona) vs. Nicolò Barella (Inter).
Compared the midfield brilliance of Pedri and Nicolò Barella using percentile data.
This in-depth analysis highlights key metrics like shot creation, passing accuracy, defensive actions, and more—perfect for football fans, analysts, and scouts.
Pedri vs Barella: A Statistical Showdown of Elite Midfielders
When it comes to elite midfielders in European football, Pedri of Barcelona and Nicolò Barella of Inter Milan stand out for their dynamic style, technical skills, and influence on the pitch. But how do they compare based on advanced scouting stats?
We’ve analyzed percentile data from the last 365 days across key metrics such as goals, expected assists, passing, ball progression, and defensive actions. Let’s break it down to see where each midfielder shines.
Attacking Threat & Creativity
Both players contribute in the final third, but in different ways:
- Non-Penalty Goals: Pedri (82nd percentile) edges out Barella (60th), showing more consistency in finding the net.
- Expected Assisted Goals (xAG): Pedri (93) surpasses Barella (86), indicating stronger playmaking instincts.
- Assists: Barella leads slightly (91) over Pedri (78), reflecting his role in direct goal involvement.
- Shot-Creating Actions: Pedri is elite here with a stunning 99th percentile, while Barella also excels at 93.
- Shots Total: Barella (75) takes more attempts than Pedri (33), showing a more aggressive shooting approach.
Passing & Progression
This area reveals Pedri’s dominance in ball distribution and movement:
- Passes Attempted: Pedri (95) attempts significantly more passes than Barella (84).
- Pass Completion %: Pedri (76) also completes a higher percentage of his passes compared to Barella (37).
- Progressive Passes: Pedri ranks in the 99th percentile; Barella is close behind at 94.
- Progressive Carries: Pedri (93) slightly edges Barella (89).
- Progressive Passes Received: Both are excellent—Pedri (90), Barella (92).
Dribbling & Touches
Both midfielders show skill in close control:
- Successful Take-Ons: Pedri (92) and Barella (82) are confident in 1v1 situations.
- Touches in Attacking Penalty Area: Almost equal—Pedri (67), Barella (66).
Defensive Contribution
This is where Barella shows more vulnerability:
- Tackles: Pedri (60) contributes more than Barella (29).
- Interceptions: Pedri (38) significantly outperforms Barella (4).
- Blocks: Pedri (82) again leads over Barella (21).
- Clearances: Pedri (5), Barella (2)—both low, reflecting advanced midfield roles.
- Aerials Won: Barella (36) is stronger in the air than Pedri (5).
Final Verdict
Pedri stands out as a technical playmaker with top-tier passing, progression, and creative output, backed by solid defensive numbers. Barella offers high energy and direct involvement in assists and shots, but lags in defensive stats and ball retention.
Who’s better? It depends on your tactical needs:
- Want a ball-dominant midfielder who can control tempo and create space? Pick Pedri.
- Need a more aggressive, final-third creator who drives forward? Go for Barella.
Conclusion
In today’s game where midfielders are expected to be all-rounders, Pedri and Barella are two of the finest examples. Whether you’re a fan, scout, or analyst, these numbers provide valuable insights into their distinct styles and strengths. Stay tuned with us for more such analysis.