Pedri's World Cup Role Questioned by Barcelona Legend Andres Iniesta

Andres Iniesta, the Barcelona legend, has expressed surprise over Pedri's absence from Spain's starting XI in the World Cup, although he praised Luis de la Fuente's decision-making.

What happened?

Pedri has been one of Spain's most important players over the past few years, making his omission from the starting XI in the quarter-final and semi-final one of Luis de la Fuente's biggest tactical decisions of the tournament. Iniesta admitted that he did not expect Pedri to lose his place in Spain's starting XI during the World Cup.

Why it matters for Pedri

Iniesta's comments come as a surprise, given his understanding of Pedri and the sort of player he is. However, Iniesta emphasized that it's a short tournament, and the manager's decisions are crucial. He also dismissed suggestions that Pedri performs differently for Spain than he does at club level.

What comes next?

Iniesta believes that Spain should resist the temptation to focus solely on stopping Lionel Messi, arguing that abandoning their own identity would play into Argentina's hands. He praised the current Spain squad, highlighting the collective quality that has carried them to another final. Iniesta also praised the current Spain squad, highlighting the collective quality that has carried them to another final.

Pedri has not started each of Spain's last two matches. The former Barcelona captain also dismissed suggestions that Pedri performs differently for Spain than he does at club level. "Obviously he doesn't play the same way because they're two different teams," Iniesta said. "I've experienced those comments myself, but ultimately it's a reality."

Iniesta explains how Spain can beat Lionel Messi

Iniesta believes that Spain should stay true to themselves and not get fixated on one player. "Spain has to stay true to itself and not get fixated on one player," he said. "No matter how much you focus on Leo, if you take your eye off him for a second, he can cause you trouble."

Iniesta has backed Pedri despite Luis de la Fuente's decision to drop him. "I sit down to watch this team, and I really enjoy watching them," Iniesta said. "They're incredibly talented; it's a very good generation, and it's no coincidence that they've made it to the World Cup final."

Iniesta praises the current Spain squad

Iniesta praised the current Spain squad, highlighting the collective quality that has carried them to another final. "Everything is achieved through teamwork, although obviously individual players have the power to make a decisive difference," he said.

Lastly, when asked about Messi, Iniesta had no hesitation in recognising the impact his former Barcelona teammate continues to have. "Leo is capable of anything; he's been decisive throughout the World Cup, and his teammates are absolutely committed to him," he concluded.

Category: player_focus