Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has explained why Barcelona midfielder Pedri was left out of the starting line-up for La Roja’s World Cup quarter-final victory over Belgium, insisting the 22-year-old cannot play the same role he performs at club level.
Pedri has struggled to hit his best form at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, prompting De la Fuente to make the bold decision to leave him on the bench as Spain secured a place in the semi-finals.
Speaking to El Larguero, the Spain boss stressed that the tactical demands of the national team differ significantly from those of Barcelona.
“Pedri can’t play for us the way he plays for Barça. Our style of play is different. We might have some similarities, but it’s different,” De la Fuente said.
He added that representing Spain requires a different footballing approach.
“Playing for Spain demands something different. The national team has a different approach to football than Barcelona.”
Despite leaving Pedri out of the starting XI, De la Fuente revealed he has held discussions with the midfielder about the role he believes suits him best.
“I’ve spoken with him and he feels very comfortable when he has a final pass, a shot, and a run into the box,” he explained.
The coach also highlighted the influence of midfielders such as Rodri and Martin Zubimendi on Spain’s system, while emphasising Pedri’s versatility.
“We have players like Rodri or Zubimendi, who influence the behaviour of the player next to him. Pedri, because of his ability and talent, can play as a six, eight or 10.”
De la Fuente was also quick to dismiss suggestions that he has lost faith in the Barcelona star.
“I love how he plays for Barça and how he plays for the national team,” he said.
Spain will now turn their attention to a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against France, where they will face Kylian Mbappe and Didier Deschamps’ side for a place in the final.
Whether Pedri returns to the starting line-up for one of the biggest matches of Spain’s campaign remains one of the key selection decisions ahead of the clash.
