What is Pedro’s role at Barcelona?

By Dominic Vieira, writing from Lisbon

Once a nobody, once irreplaceable and now an uncertainty. At the age of 24, the forward from Tenerife has played over 160 matches, kissed all the trophies and set a record which Messi didn’t, becoming the first player in history to score in 6 different competitions in one season.

After swiftly establishing himself during his first full season at Barcelona, it seemed evident that Pedro would remain up front for years to come. Last year he formed the lethal MVP trio which naturally and rapidly transformed into a menacing power scoring 98 goals. It was an effective combination with Messi moving to the centre enjoying a free role accompanied by two agile forwards, and they conquered everything. 

However, it’s been another season of transition as the manager began rotating his attacking force with frequency, except for the untouchable ‘King Leo’ of course. The arrivals of Fabregas and Sanchez, the only summer investments made, offered Barcelona more dynamic solutions. In addition, Guardiola did not hesitate to promote two Catalan youth products, Isaac Cuenca and Cristian Tello. The pair of 20 year old’s have been enjoying a productive run of games, boosted by David Villa’s major injury sustained in December alongside shorter absences from Pedro and Afellay’s eternal calf curse. 

Pedro no longer appears to be an “absolutely fundamental” element in the team. This past week has been defining for Barcelona where they frustratingly lost to Chelsea and were knocked out of the La Liga race by sacred rivals Real Madrid on home soil. Pedro appeared in both matches as a substitute, with limited time and opportunity to make a difference. Despite being fit, why was Tello selected ahead of the World Cup champion for the 'El Clasico’?

The 24 year old is known as “the silent superstar” due to his grand humbleness portrayed both on and off the field. Even Pep Guardiola, who promoted Pedro in 2009, told him to be more selfish and stop looking for Messi all the time. But that’s his nature and although he does not produce the same magic other team mates display, he’s been vital on that right wing. Perhaps that’s why many haven’t noticed his absence or drop in form, whereas Messi who hasn’t scored in the two past fixtures has triggered an earthquake in Catalunya. 

The arrival of Alexis Sanchez became the major obstacle ahead of Pedro’s path as competition on the right side intensified. Despite the pair playing together in Barcelona’s last 3 league matches prior to 'El Clasico’, the Chilean winger has scored more goals than Pedro and been the first choice for the principal encounters. He’s constantly featuring in the Champions League and started every clash against Real Madrid except the second leg of the Supercopa.

Additionally, Guardiola has unexpectedly played Fabregas up front on many occasions, shifting Messi to the flanks, allowing him more space and freedom. The former Arsenal man has been superb for Barcelona scoring 15 and assisting 20 goals. The figures speaks for itself.

The 'cantera’ is the heart and soul of FC Barcelona, it’s where they extract their rock which is cut into diamonds and the skinny Isaac Cuenca is the latest graduate who has been revolving around praise due to his outstanding performances. Although he prefers to feature on the left, his energy and flair has reduced Pedro’s chances to play on that side.

However, it won’t be long until the most promising youngster explodes, who’s already made his debut with the number 27 jersey and name is Gerard Deulofeu. The blond 18 year old, who is not related to Torres, is enjoying his first full season with the B team and it’s evident that he’s an extrordinary talent who’s evolving at a rapid rate. One could simply drown himself in his YouTube videos, no wonder Wenger wanted to poach him.

The point is that Barcelona has too many players which posses too much potential and quality. This is problematic from a player’s perspective as he needs and wants to play, which is essential for their development. But only 11 can start and imagine if all the Barcelona forwards were match fit tonight? 2 players to accompany Leo Messi… an everlasting headache for Pep & co. The same applies to several positions in the team and it’s no surprise that Oriol Romeu, a great talent, was sold to Chelsea.

However, Pedro will not be leaving, that opportunity may have emerged in the past but Guardiola was adamant in keeping him. Barcelona’s number 17 is a key component, despite a slump in form and the minor injuries. It’s true that it hasn’t been Pedro’s most prolific season as he’s only struck the back of the net 9 times and completed 4 assists, from 42 matches in which he started 27. This contrasts with his shining consistent performance last year where he hit flying form after a grand World Cup, Pedro started 40 of his 53 appearances, scoring 22 and assisting 10 goals. Last year’s final at Wembley is a perfect demonstration of Pedro at his prime where he opened the scoring with a calm finish and remained active throughout.

The Euro 2012 is 44 days away from kicking off and Pedro will want to be part of Spain’s 23 man squad. However, competition is sky high with an array of quality at Del Bosque’s disposal. Even though Pedro became essential in South Africa, he can’t gamble on the past, he needs regular playing time to regain form, confidence and sharpness. Perhaps following Guardiola’s advice would be beneficial, becoming selfish in order to score some goals; sorry Messi.

But before Poland and Ukraine evolve into the topic which dominates football, tonight is Champions League Tuesday! Barcelona host Chelsea where victory is compulsary for the defending champions. Guardiola believes that his side will win tonight and Catalan newspaper 'Sport’ states that Fabregas and Sanchez will accompany Messi up front, but should Pedro start?