PSG midfielder heaps praise on Barcelona superstar, comments on Ballon d’Or race | OneFootball

Reigning Euro 2024 champions Spain booked their place in the UEFA Nations League final thanks to a win over France.

It was a game that saw Barcelona players Pedri and Lamine Yamal run rings around the opponent. But another player who impressed on the night was Fabian Ruiz.

Speaking to the media after the game, Ruiz talked about Spain’s victory and what it means for the team. But more importantly, he heaped praise on fellow midfielder Pedri.

Fabian Ruiz praises Pedri’s performance

Ruiz admitted that Pedri is a key component in Spain’s midfield and even highlighted the midfielder’s strong performance against France.

“It’s not just Pedri, it’s everyone, because this team is built on the family we are. We know the tremendous quality we have in the locker room,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

“We all know what a great player Pedri is; he’s incredibly important to us, and he put on a show the other day,” he added.

Ruiz himself has been no slouch either and has played a key role in the Spain national team under Luis de la Fuente.

In fact, the former Napoli star is enjoying a brilliant year. Last week, the midfielder secured the Champions League with PSG, and the player could now be on the verge of winning the UEFA Nations League.

Fabian Ruiz has enjoyed a brilliant year so far (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Ruiz’s performances for club and country have left de la Fuente extremely impressed. So much so that the Spain coach will put out Ruiz, Pedri and Lamine Yamal’s names as candidates for the Ballon d’Or title.

Speaking of the Ballon d’Or, Ruiz was asked about his favourite candidates. The midfielder, though, offered a very diplomatic response.

“As long as all that’s being talked about, it’s a good sign. We’re putting up great numbers, winning titles. The Ballon d’Or is a separate title given to the best player of the year, and right now I’m not even thinking about that.

“I’m just thinking about enjoying myself and helping the national team now, and my team when necessary. It’s a good sign if it’s being talked about, but right now I’m only thinking about Sunday. I hope whoever wins the Ballon d’Or is a teammate,” he said.

Interestingly indeed, the two top candidates for the Ballon d’Or in Ousmane Dembele and Yamal are both Ruiz’s teammates – something the player indirectly pointed to.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s from the national team or PSG, the important thing is that it’s a teammate, and I’ll be happy for whoever gets it. Everyone deserves it because they’re having an incredible year, and may the best man win it,” he concluded.