Euro 2016: Pedro hits out at Spain for keeping him on the bench
Spanish winger Pedro has revealed his displeasure at his role with La Furia Roja, claiming that being on the bench is ‘not worth’ his time. The Chelsea winger has barely appeared for Spain in the 2016 UEFA Euros, despite the defending champions struggling to break down sides in the beginning of games.
In an interview with Spanish TV outlet Movistar, the former Barcelona star minced no words while voicing his displeasure, saying “I had other expectations when I arrived here. It is not what I wanted. To assume this role is difficult. If you don't see continuity, coming here to stay with the group is no longer worth it.”
Pedro’s exclusion from the starting lineup is hardly surprising given his dismal season with Chelsea, only scoring 9 times and assisting 3 goals in 43 games for the Blues this season. However, the 28-year-old has an excellent record with Spain, being part of the sides that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 European Championships.
Also Read: Euro 2016: Are Spain the clear favourites in the tournament after emphatic rout of Turkey?
The winger has made 56 appearances for his national side, scoring 17 times, and revealed that he is considering making a decision on his international future, saying “I think situations get to that point where you have to make a decision. That happens to everyone in football.”
Pedro continued to make his displeasure known, but struck a conciliatory note out of respect for Spain coach Vicente del Bosque, saying “I'll think, I will meditate. Now is not the best time to talk, out of respect for my team-mates and my coach, who has always trusted me. I have to think.”
Pedro’s worst year of football
The Spaniard’s comments, while ill-timed, reek of a player who is disenchanted with his current footballing situation. Indeed, Pedro earlier made comments that he regretted his move to Premier League giants Chelsea, revealing “Hopefully [I can return to Barcelona], I know it's difficult, I spoke with the president when we saw each other at the Cup final and I also spoke with all the people who love me there.”
The winger is considered a solution to Barcelona’s paucity of options on the bench, with Luis Enrique unsatisfied with Arda Turan’s performances, with Barcelona reportedly exploring the option of taking Pedro back on a loan deal.