Intermittent fasting and chocolate waffles. That is the unusual combination that has helped Barcelona and Spain midfielder Pedri finally shake off the injury nightmare that plagued his career.
The 22-year-old playmaker endured two brutal years of muscle problems and physical setbacks. Between 2021 and 2023, he missed over 80 matches for club and country. Hamstring tears, quad issues, and repeated breakdowns raised serious questions about his long-term durability.
But in 2024 and into 2025, Pedri has been a different man. He has stayed fit, started consistently, and returned to the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting talents. The change, he says, came from a complete lifestyle overhaul.
Speaking in a recent interview, Pedri revealed he adopted intermittent fasting under the guidance of a nutritionist. He cut out processed foods and changed his eating schedule. But he also kept one guilty pleasure: chocolate waffles.
“I eat them before matches,” Pedri said with a smile. “It sounds strange, but it works for me. The fasting helped my body recover better. The waffles keep me happy.”
Barcelona’s medical staff also adjusted his training load. They reduced high-intensity sessions and focused on prevention work. Pedri now does extra core stability drills and spends more time in the gym.
The results speak for themselves. In the 2024-25 season, Pedri has played over 40 matches for Barcelona and Spain without a single muscle injury. He has been a key figure in Xavi’s midfield, dictating tempo and creating chances.
“I feel stronger now than I did at 19,” Pedri added. “Those years were hard. I was scared every time I stepped on the pitch. Now I just enjoy football again.”
Barcelona fans will hope the new routine keeps him fit for the crucial run-in. With the La Liga title race tight and a Champions League quarterfinal ahead, Pedri’s availability could be decisive.
For now, the young star is sticking to his plan. Intermittent fasting, smart training, and the occasional waffle. It is an unusual recipe, but it is working.
