Overview
- The 19-year-old said he watches almost every Barcelona game and called the Catalan side his favourite club.
- Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman compared Smit’s turning, two-footed play and vision to Pedri and said the midfielder is on his World Cup list.
- Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong urged restraint on the Pedri talk, warning such comparisons add pressure on a young player.
- Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are monitoring Smit’s progress, with interest reported but no agreement or move in place.
- Smit has surpassed last season’s goals and assists in fewer matches for AZ and says he must prove he deserves any senior tournament call.