Pau Cubarsi: 5 things to know about the 17-year-old Barcelona star who caged Osimhen as Napoli are knocked out of UCL

Pau Cubarsi: 5 things to know about the 17-year-old Barcelona star who caged Osimhen as Napoli are knocked out of UCL

Faruq Ibrahim 17:39 - 13.03.2024

What you need to know about Barcelona's young defender, Pau Cubarsi.

At just 17 years old, Pau Cubarsi is making waves at Barcelona with his exceptional talent and promising performances. Drawing comparisons to legends like Gerard Pique and Franz Beckenbauer, this young defender is catching the eye of top clubs and football enthusiasts worldwide.

Age and profile

Born Pau Cubarsi Paredes on January 22nd, 2007 in Brescano, a small town in the province of Girona and autonomous community of Catalonia.

Cubarsi began his football education in Girona, where he spent four years, before moving to La Masia in 2018.

Barcelona's young defender Pau Cubarsi || Image credit: Imago
Barcelona's young defender Pau Cubarsi || Image credit: Imago

Progressing through Barcelona's academy, Cubarsí debuted as the third-youngest player in the UEFA Youth League. He trained with the first team in April 2023, signed his pro contract in July, and featured in the pre-season squad. His first-team debut came in January 2024 against Unionistas de Salamanca, followed by a start against Real Betis.

Seen as the next Pique

Teammate Ronald Araujo acknowledges Cubarsi's potential by likening him to the seasoned Barca icon Gerard Pique. Araujo highlights Cubarsi's intelligence on the field, a trait reminiscent of Pique's successful career at the club. Despite being just 17, Cubarsi shows remarkable promise and talent, suggesting a bright future ahead.

A Valuable Asset with a Modest Price Tag

With a bargain release clause of €10 million, Pau Cubarsi has attracted attention from Premier League giants like Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea. Barca's financial constraints could lead to a potential windfall if they decide to part ways with the young defender, who has already shown immense potential on the pitch.

Nickname

Dubbed 'Franz Beckenbauer Cubarsi' by his peers, Pau Cubarsi has impressed senior players at Barcelona with his mature style of play. Drawing parallels with the legendary German, Cubarsi's recent standout performance against Getafe solidified his reputation as a rising star in the football world.

Pau Cubarsi || Imago
Pau Cubarsi || Imago

Youthful Revolution under Xavi

Under the guidance of Xavi, Barcelona has witnessed a youthful revolution, with players like Cubarsi being thrust into the limelight. Cubarsi joins a select group of players born post-2006 to feature in La Liga this season, showcasing the club's commitment to nurturing young talent for future success.

Man of the match against Napoli

Pau Cubarsi announced himself to European football last night with his brilliant performance against Victor Osimhen, so much so that he was awarded the man of the match award.

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