Head coach says the midfield maestro can find gaps “where no one sees them”
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has hailed “unique” Pedri after another excellent midfield performance for Spain in the last batch of international games.
The Barcelona midfielder delivered a trademark commanding performance in Spain’s World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Bulgaria, but he was particularly brilliant in their 4-0 win over Bulgaria in Tuesday night.
The 22-year-old was central to Spain’s dominance in Valladolid, dictating the tempo and creating chances throughout the match before being substituted midway through the second half to a standing ovation from the crowd.
De la Fuente was quick to highlight Pedri’s vision and intelligence on the pitch.
“You can expect anything from Pedri,” said De la Fuente. “He is a great, unique footballer, who sees spaces and gaps where no one sees them.
“He always chooses the best outlet that his teammates give him.”
Pedri is also key to Barcelona’s midfield performance under Hansi Flick, dictating play from deep alongside Frenkie de Jong.
While his performances have been exceptional, the accumulation of minutes will likely be a concern for Barcelona. He has been a fixture for both club and country and they will be careful about managing his fitness, even if it appears the days of his extended spell on the sidelines due to muscle injuries are behind him.
