Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has benched midfielder Pedri for the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina, sticking with the midfield trio of Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Fabián Ruiz.
The decision follows Pedri's earlier demotion to the substitutes' bench during the tournament's knockout stages in North America.
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According to reports, the Barcelona playmaker remained among the substitutes purely due to performance reasons rather than fitness concerns.
Fabián Ruiz secured his starting role after impactful displays, including scoring Spain's opening goal in the quarter-final victory over Belgium in Los Angeles.
De la Fuente Defends Selection
Luis de la Fuente defended his selection strategy by emphasizing squad depth and professionalism, particularly regarding midfielders who accepted limited starting opportunities.
"It's unfair that Mikel doesn't play from the start, but it would also be unfair if someone else were left out," stated de la Fuente.
The manager explained that players understand their specific roles within the squad structure during different phases of the international tournament.
"Only 11 can play, and they understand that – the role they have to play at any given moment.
When they take to the pitch, they know what they have to do; that's why it's a pleasure to be their manager," added de la Fuente.
He further noted that individual starting status is secondary to collective tournament objectives.
"What matters is the team. It doesn't matter who starts the match.
Everyone is important, even those who haven't played," remarked de la Fuente.
