If you follow FC Barcelona closely, you may have spotted a curious moment before kickoff: Pedri, FC Barcelona's versatile and creative midfielder, often leans over and plants a quick kiss on the head of one of Barça’s staff.
That staff member is Julio Tous, the head of physical preparation (fitness training). What looks like a quirky gesture is in fact a little ritual - a superstition Pedri holds dear.
Watch Pedri’s pre-match superstition in action: a kiss on Julio Tous’ bald head for luck and team spirit:
The Story Behind the Ritual
Reports say that this act is a consistent pre-match habit for Pedri. He seeks out Tous (or another bald member of the staff) and gives a light kiss on the top of his head. For Pedri, this is not just a fun quirk, it's a gesture of respect, affection, and, importantly, a personal good luck charm.
He repeats this ritual before nearly every match. While the exact origin of this habit is unclear, observers have suggested that it might stem from Pedri’s admiration for bald players (like Andrés Iniesta, whose shaved head was once admired) and from wanting to carry a small symbol of fortune into each game.
Why a Superstition Doesn’t Seem Silly
In high-pressure sports, many athletes lean on rituals, lucky charms, or routines. These acts might not change the outcome direct-cause wise, but they help ground the athlete’s mind, reduce anxiety, and build confidence.
Some psychologists call this a “performance ritual”, the same way a golfer has a consistent pre-putt routine or a basketball player taps the rim before shooting.
Pedri’s ritual is personal, visible, and a little poetic. It shows his emotional connection to the staff and underscores how even elite athletes use small gestures to prepare mentally for battle.
How Fans and Media Reacted
Once the video of Pedri doing this went viral (for example, on Instagram Reels), media outlets began covering it as a “quirky pre-match ritual.” Fans have been amused, charmed, and supportive; interpreting it as a sign of humility and human touch, rather than oddness.
Some even speculate that the ritual strengthens team camaraderie: Tous, being a key figure behind the scenes, is elevated as part of that pre-game energy and morale.
What It Says About Pedri
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Emotionally in tune. Pedri is not afraid to show gestures of gratitude or connection — even in professional settings.
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Believer in small rituals. He accepts that even if the kiss doesn’t “cause” a win, the ritual itself holds meaning for him.
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Bringing humility to superstition. It’s not over the top or ostentatious — it’s simple, respectful, and recurring.
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Focus and mindset. Such rituals help athletes transition mentally into “game mode,” anchoring their mindset.
Possible Weaknesses & Criticism
Of course, not everyone will see it as charming. Some critics might say it’s unprofessional or eccentric.
But in modern sport, rituals abound and unless they are harmful or disruptive, fans and teams often embrace them as part of player character and identity.
Also, we don’t have deep confirmation from official Barça sources that this ritual is always present or endorsed. The reports are mostly from media outlets and baseball culture observers. (Still, multiple independent sources repeat the same story.)
Final Thoughts
Pedri’s ritual of kissing Julio Tous’s bald head gives us a glimpse into the emotional, human side of football. It’s a mix of respect, superstition, and personal psychology.
Whether it truly brings luck is up to belief but what’s undeniable is that it reflects Pedri’s personality: grounded, connected, and quietly confident.
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