Spain played their final friendly before the start of their World Cup campaign, and Luis de la Fuente may have provided his clearest indication yet of a preferred role that could disappoint Barcelona supporters.
La Roja rounded off their preparations with a convincing 3-1 victory over Peru in Puebla, Mexico, on Tuesday evening, inspired by an outstanding display from Pedri that will have both Spain and Barcelona fans excited. In contrast, their draw against Iraq earlier in the week failed to generate the same level of optimism as Spain continue their pursuit of a second World Cup title.
De la Fuente selected what appeared to be his strongest available starting XI, with only the injured Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams absent. Pedri, Pau Cubarsí and Ferran Torres were all named in the starting line-up, while appearances from Gavi, Eric García and Dani Olmo suggested this could closely resemble the side that begins the tournament against Cape Verde and potentially remains unchanged throughout the group stage, fitness permitting.
However, there was one Barcelona player that failed to feature off the bench indicating he may be considered for the starting position in the World Cup. That player was Joan Garcia.
Fan favourite deserves to be number one?
Joan García was only recently called up to the Spain squad, and his inclusion sparked considerable debate, with Kepa Arrizabalaga, David de Gea and Robert Sánchez all viewed as strong contenders for the final goalkeeping spot.
Many Barcelona supporters have been calling for García to be Spain's first-choice goalkeeper following an outstanding breakthrough campaign. The 24-year-old won both the Ricardo Zamora Trophy and the Save of the Season award, further strengthening his case for a prominent role with the national team.
That stands in stark contrast to current number one Unai Simón, who endured a difficult domestic season and conceded 58 league goals. Competition from David Raya remains understandable, however, given that the Arsenal goalkeeper won the Premier League Golden Glove and helped his side reach the Champions League final. Raya's late arrival to the squad also opened the door for García to play 72 minutes against Iraq, offering him an opportunity to impress ahead of the tournament.
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