Pep's prediction correct as Rodri returns to dominant best

Rodri came in for some criticism in Spain after they were held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde in their first game of the World Cup. There were accusations that he had moved the ball too slowly; that he was in some way responsible for the result.

His manager made it clear he felt otherwise. "It seems incredibly insulting to me that people would say that about the best player in the world," said Luis de la Fuente. "Would people say that about others who are considered the best? I don't think they would dare.