Spain midfielder Pedri will no longer participate in the remaining matches of the European Championship following a challenge from Germany’s Toni Kroos that led to a left knee injury. Despite Kroos not receiving any disciplinary action for the tackle, Pedri was forced to leave the quarterfinal match in the eighth minute in tears. The Spanish Football Federation confirmed that Pedri has a grade two sprain in his left knee, an injury that typically requires several weeks to heal. Consequently, the 21-year-old will miss the semifinal against France and the potential final if Spain advances. However, Pedri will continue to accompany the Spanish squad for the remainder of the tournament.
Despite the injury, Spain ensured Pedri was included in the celebration photo after their quarterfinal victory, with the midfielder visibly emotional and supported by teammates. Pedri has been a crucial part of Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, starting in four out of five matches and sitting out only when Spain had already secured the top spot in their group. Meanwhile, Kroos, who had announced his retirement after Germany’s exit from the tournament, expressed regret for the challenge that led to Pedri’s injury. In an Instagram post, the World Cup winner apologized to Pedri, emphasizing that it was unintentional and wishing him a speedy recovery.
