Spain's Euro 2024 campaign receives a significant boost with the return to form of Pedri Gonzalez, the Barcelona playmaker who is set to play a crucial role in their challenging opening match against Croatia in Berlin on Saturday. The clash between Spain and Croatia, both heavyweight teams in Group B, is highlighted by a midfield duel between Pedri and Croatia's 38-year-old stalwart, Luka Modric, adding a 'Clasico' feel to the encounter.

Group B, considered the toughest quartet in the tournament, also includes Italy and Albania. However, Spain's chances are bolstered by a resurgent Pedri, who was instrumental in Spain's run to the Euro 2020 semi-finals. Despite suffering repeated hamstring injuries over the past years, Pedri has shown promising signs of returning to his best in recent weeks, particularly in Spain's warm-up friendlies.

In a notable performance, Pedri scored twice in an advanced role as Spain defeated Northern Ireland 5-1 in their final warm-up match. This has sparked a debate in Spain regarding Pedri's optimal position on the field. While he sometimes operates deeper in midfield, Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente prefers him closer to the attacking