Barcelona’s new golden generation isn’t just about Lamine Yamal, Gavi, and Pedri—Pau Cubarsi is proving to be just as special. The 18-year-old is highly underrated and deserves more recognition for his silent but elite performances. The La Masia star has been a rock-solid defender and also a world-class passer of the ball. Here is why Cubarsi is Barcelona’s next great defensive leader.
The Defensive Maestro Barcelona Had Been Missing
For all the attention Lamine Yamal and other La Masia stars have received as Barca teenage prodigies, Pau Cubarsi has been just as impactful, but in a completely different way. Barca’s defence has long lacked a true leader who can command the backline with intelligence, composure and technical ability. Young Cubarsi has stepped into that role effortlessly and made everyone forget he is only 18!
Cubarsi can phenomenally read the game and anticipate danger. Therefore, he can position himself perfectly to deal with that threat. However, what truly sets him apart is how he dictates the game’s pace from deep. In situations where most defenders would clear the ball, Cubarsi plays out of it and turns them into attacking chances.
Cubarsi is More than a Defender: He is a Playmaker!
Cubarsi’s passing range is borderline absurd for a CB. His forward passing accuracy is shockingly high at 96% percentile. Through these sharp progressive passes, the teenager breaks defensive lines, switches play, and even delivers long weighted balls to set up attack transitions.
Also, Flick’s high line is very demanding for defenders. It requires them to not only defend well but also build attacks from the back. Cubarsi has thrived in this system. His passing ability has become just as crucial as Pedri’s creativity or de Jong’s ball progression.
Pau Cubarsi’s Amazing Adaptability Proves He’s a Future Captain
Cubarsi has shown signs of becoming a great leader. The youngster has paired up alongside the aggressive Araujo, veteran Inigo and technical Eric Garcia and seamlessly adapted with every single one. He has remained solid at the back and anchored the Barca defence.
He seems comfortable at the back, no matter who his defensive partner is.
And you know what’s even more impressive? He organizes the defence like a veteran and makes crucial decisions in big games. If he continues this, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes the Barca skipper or Spain’s.
Pau Cubarsi has indeed not received the appreciation he deserves. His silent yet stellar performances might have been overshadowed, but he has proven a key player for the Catalans. He has signed a long contract with Barca until 2029, and is on track to become a Barcelona superstar.