Santi Comesana: Barcelona star Pedri took the game away from Villarreal

Villarreal were firmly in contention at 2-1 early in the second half after Pape Gueye struck four minutes after the restart. The goal handed the visitors belief and momentum, putting the hosts under pressure despite their early advantage.

However, Comesana pointed to Flick's introduction of Pedri as the tactical turning point, suggesting the midfielder's presence restored Barcelona's control and composure.

"Pedri calmed everything down, he took the ball away from us. With Pedri the match stopped being back and forth," said Comesana, via MD.

"Barca had much longer possessions, they did not run after the ball. He filters the pass for the third goal that breaks three defensive lines, and there we give up a little. We tried but we no longer had conviction."

Ultimately, Barcelona ran out 4-1 winners, inspired by a scintillating display from Lamine Yamal. The teenager netted his first career hat-trick, repeatedly unsettling the Villarreal defence with his direct running and sharp finishing.  

READ MORE: LaLiga: Yamal stars Barcelona hammer Villarreal to extend lead at the top