Pedri played from the start in each of Spain's group stage games, making up the core of the Spanish midfield. On 27 Jun, Spain finished top of Group H after a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde.
What happened?
Pedri was accompanied by a different advanced midfield player in each game, with Mikel Merino starting against Uruguay. Merino has a strong goalscoring record for Spain, with 10 goals in 47 games.
Pedri's relationship with his teammates is important, particularly with Dani Olmo, who has played alongside him many times for Barcelona. Olmo has a track record of performing in major tournaments, topping the charts for goal contributions at Euro 2024.
Why it matters for Pedri
Luis de la Fuente faces the tough task of picking just one advanced midfield player to start the game, with each of the three central options offering their own unique attributes. Pedri's intelligence and technical skill make him a key component of the Spanish midfield.
Fabián Ruiz is another option, having developed a good relationship with Portuguese left-back Nuno Mendes at PSG. Ruiz's versatility could be seen as a strength, having started as a number 10 before dropping back to fill Pedri's role after his injury in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
What comes next?
Spain will face Austria in the round of 32, a team built upon maintaining a high level of work rate out of possession. Pedri's role in the midfield will be important in unlocking Austria's low block.
On 27 Jun, Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente will have to decide who to start in the advanced midfield role. Pedri's performance will be crucial to Spain's success in the knockouts.
Pedri has played a key role in Spain's group stage campaign, and his continued performance will be important in the round of 32. Spain finished top of Group H with 7 points, ahead of Uruguay and Cape Verde.
The round of 32 game against Austria will take place on a date to be determined, with Pedri's midfield role crucial to Spain's success. Spain's ability to unlock Austria's low block will depend on Pedri's intelligence and technical skill.
Pedri's relationship with his teammates, particularly Dani Olmo, will be important in the round of 32. Olmo's ability to perform in major tournaments makes him a valuable asset to the Spanish team.
The Spanish midfield, including Pedri, will have to work together to overcome Austria's high work rate out of possession. Spain's success in the knockouts will depend on their ability to work together as a team.