Pedro Rodriguez is just another La Masia success story. And what beautiful fairytale this one is. Just two years ago, most football fans didn't even know who Pedro is, and now he's an undisputed starter in the World Cup-winning Spanish side and in one of the finest club sides to ever grace the game.
Launched by Frank Rijkaard on January 12 2008, where he was given a few minutes in Barcelona's demolition of Mallorca at Camp Nou, it was under Pep Guardiola that the forward reached his potential. He wasn't a big factor in the 2008/2009 campaign, but he rose to stardom in 2009/2010. Given a chance, his performances were so impressive that Thierry Henry was quickly relegated to the bench. Pedro didn't deceive anyone and he became the first and only player in football history to score in six different competitions in the same season.
In his first full season as a first team player, he managed to score 23 goals, while assisting some more. He outscored the much (over)hyped star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. This was enough to get a call to the Spanish National Team's World Cup squad. Not only did he travel to South Africa, but he became an undisputed starter and played a key role in Spain's success.
This season, he has been playing even better. He forms a deadly attacking trio with Lionel Messi and David Villa; he has already racked up 18 goals and 9 assists. But he has done much more than shown by stats; his work ethic is fantastic, he never stops running and always gives 100% for the team. This explains why he has endeared himself to the Camp Nou faithful so quickly.
Talented, humble and hardworking: Pedro is the epitome of what Barcelona and La Masia stand for. At only 23-years-old, he's Barcelona and Spain's future and has everything to become a legend.
In today's demolition of Almeria, Pedrito played his 100th match with the blaugrana jersey and scored his 41st goal, but no Barcelona supporter doubts that there will be many more (matches, goals and trophies) to come!
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