Despite arguably being Spain's best player at the 2020 Euros so far, Jordi Alba hasn't been included in the team's starting XI for the round of 16 match against Croatia. Jose Gaya — with whom Barcelona have been linked recently — takes his place at left-back.
So far at the Euros, Alba has recorded an assist in three matches and was voted Man of the Match in Spain's opening game at the tournament.
Eric Garcia, Sergio Busquets and Pedri, on the other hand, will play from the start against Croatia.
Spain XI: Simon - Azpilicueta, Garcia, Laporte, Gaya - Busquets, Koke, Pedri - Torres, Morata, Sarabia.
Kick-off is at 6:00 pm CEST.
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Jordi Alba clears up his Barca future amid exit links
“I have three years remaining on my contract and I feel able to complete them,” Jordi Alba told the pre-Croatia presser on Sunday, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
“The decision of the club is there, but my intention is to stay at Barcelona for life.”
Last week, some reports suggested that Inter Milan are willing to offer some of their players in return for Alba.
Barca, meanwhile, are believed to be interested in signing Valencia captain Jose Gaya this summer as a replacement for Jordi.
On the other hand, the 32-year-old is tied with the Catalans until 2024 and it doesn't seem like he's going to leave Camp Nou in the coming months.
Pedri sheds light on newfound role as Spain starter
"It is the second call up and I didn't know if I would have the weight of being a starter for Spain. I want to try to enjoy these minutes and contribute as much as possible to the team. From day one, Luis Enrique has given me a lot of confidence and has bet on me," Pedri has told RAC1.
The Barcelona midfielder has so far played full 90 minutes in all of Spain's matches at the Euro 2020. The 18-year-old has also become the player to cover the most ground at the tournament.
Pedri also spoke on Spain's round of 16 match against Croatia which is set to be played on June 28.
"Both Spain and Croatia want to have the ball and if we don't have it, we suffer. Anyway, without the ball we are a tough team to break down. It's going to be a nice game and hopefully we win."
