Barcelona's La Masia youth academy is renowned for producing exceptional young footballers, and the 2007 crop may be its most promising yet. Among this talented group are two players destined for major roles this summer: Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal. These two Spanish talents, born just six months apart and coming through the same youth system, are set to make their mark on the international stage.
The Rise of Pau Cubarsi
Cubarsi, a 19-year-old centre-half, has already made his mark on the senior stage. He made his Spain debut in March 2024 at just 17 years old, a remarkable feat considering he had only recently played for the Under-17s. This rapid progression is a testament to his talent and the effectiveness of Barcelona's youth development program.
Despite his young age, Cubarsi has already faced some of the world's top strikers. He has gone up against Victor Osimhen and Kylian Mbappe in the Champions League, and in the 2024 Olympic Final, he helped Spain beat France, a team featuring experienced forwards like Alexandre Lacazette and Jean-Philippe Mateta. Cubarsi's performance in these high-pressure situations showcases his composure and ability to handle challenging opponents.
One of Cubarsi's strengths is his possession game. He is an excellent passer, keeping the ball simple, and is also proficient in the air, even though it's not his primary role. His game awareness and ability to read danger are exceptional, and he occasionally seeks out diagonal passes from the right-sided centre-back position to the left flank. As he matures and continues to play in a possession-dominant Barcelona team, his long passing will only improve.
A Catalan-Speaking Star
Interestingly, Cubarsi rarely interviews in Spanish due to his upbringing in a Catalan-speaking household. This highlights the diverse linguistic skills of Barcelona's youth players, which can be a valuable asset in the modern football world.
The Future is Bright
With his impressive performances and rapid rise through the ranks, Cubarsi is almost certain to be part of Spain's final 26-man squad for the World Cup this summer. His talent, combined with his ability to handle pressure and his strong technical skills, make him a key player for the national team. As he continues to develop, Cubarsi will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in the world of football.
