Spain boss Luis de la Fuente says Pedri peaking just at right time ahead of Euros

Pedri is getting back to his best form and will play a key role in Spain's European Championship campaign, head coach Luis de la Fuente said after the Barcelona midfielder scored twice in a 5-1 win over Northern Ireland.

The 21-year-old, who had injury struggles last season and did not play for Spain in 2023, scored his first two international goals in Spain's final warm-up match before Euro 2024.

"We are very pleased because he is a very talented player and knows I trust him. He will bring a lot to this competition," De la Fuente told reporters on Saturday after the win.

"I have always talked about the importance of his confidence. I said that 'Pedri has to meet Pedri,' meaning he needs to gain self-assurance. The best version of Pedri is still unknown because he is so talented. Our expectations for him are immense.

"He needs to take that step forward, as he has done, to confidently do the unique things he can."

Spain starts their Euros campaign in Germany on June 15 against Croatia in Group B. They will also compete against Italy and Albania.

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