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Spain midfielder Pedri 'dreaming' of World Cup success

Spain midfielder Pedri 'dreaming' of World Cup success
© Reuters
Spain midfielder Pedri says that he is 'dreaming of something big in Qatar', as La Roja prepare to open their tournament against Costa Rica.

Spain midfielder Pedri has said that he is 'dreaming of something big in Qatar', with La Roja looking to win their second World Cup.

The European nation were world champions back in 2010, but they have found it difficult in their last two finals, being eliminated in the group stage in 2014 before only reaching the round of 16 four years later.

Spain will open their 2022 group-stage campaign against Costa Rica on Wednesday, while they will also take on Germany and Japan in Group E.

Pedri is expected to be a key player for Luis Enrique's side in Qatar, and the 19-year-old has said that he is 'dreaming' of World Cup success.

"I dream of something big in Qatar. We want to be among the best. Of course, there are teams that think they are better than us, but we have to think calmly. In the Euros, we were in the semi-finals, but if you look back, we deserved to be in the final," he told reporters.

Pedri in action for Barcelona on October 4, 2022© Reuters

However, despite being considered to be a vital part of the national team both now and in the future, Pedri has insisted that he is not "the number one star".

"I don't feel like I am the number one star in the Spanish national team," he added. "For me, the responsibility lies with the whole team.

"I don't feel like the biggest star just because my picture is on the buildings in Doha. I don't focus on that, I just want to play and be calm; do what I can and do what my coach asks."

Pedri, who has featured on 14 occasions for Spain, has made 19 appearances for Barcelona during the 2022-23 campaign, contributing three goals in the process.

Pedri celebrates scoring for Barcelona on September 17, 2022© Reuters

The teenager was also asked about Enrique's future with the national side, as the manager's contract is due to expire after the World Cup.

Pedri is hopeful that the 52-year-old will pen another deal with La Roja due to his impressive work as the head coach but accepts that a departure if possible.

"From my point of view, I think he deserves to continue with the national team because he is a coach who contributes a lot, but in the end, it is a decision that he and the federation will make," said the midfielder.

Spain recorded a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their pre-tournament friendly on July 17, with Pedri an unused substitute for the national side in that fixture.

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