One month into the new season, Barcelona are looking like the team to beat right now, having won all of their matches so far.

The Catalans already have a six point lead over Real Madrid in the league table, as we head into the first international break of the season.

Many things have clicked for Hansi Flick’s men this season, including the attack. But it is worth talking about the midfield, which has performed exceptionally well despite the absence of Frenkie de Jong.

Pedri, in particular, has been a standout performer, not only because of his creative and passing abilities, but also his defensive work.

According to data from Squawka, Pedri has won more possessions than any other player in LaLiga so far this season, with a total of 44.

That figure places him top of the pile, ahead of Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume (41) and Real Betis’ Pablo Fornals (40).

Notably, Pedri is the only player from Spain’s traditional top clubs to feature prominently at the summit of the list, underlining just how influential he has been in the middle of the park.

This is exactly the reason that Pedri such a good midfielder. While the Spaniard is rightly celebrated for his elegance on the ball, his vision and his passing range, his ability to regain possession has been every bit as valuable to Barcelona this term.