Former Las Palmas coach Pepe Mel says he was convinced about Pedri after his first senior game.

Mel gave Pedri his debut with Las Palmas before the teen was sold to Barcelona.

He recalled to Marca: "He already has seasons behind him and has more of a trade, but his first friendly match with Las Palmas of a certain entity was against Betis in the tribute to Rubén Castro at Villamarín.

"He had to deal with Joaquín down the flank and he was the best, but not only from Las Palmas, but from the match.

"When I saw Pedri I saw Andrés Iniesta. I remember that his first important match with Las Palmas was a friendly against Betis and he was the best of the match."