At the start of the year, Barcelona fans were uncertain whether Pau Cubarsi would secure a regular starting position for Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Cubarsi has yet to concede a goal in five World Cup appearances. Partnering with Aymeric Laporte, he has formed a strong defensive duo, with his ball-playing skills facilitating Spain's build-up play, especially aiding wing-backs Pedro Porro and Marcos Llorente in their forward runs.
The Spanish backline has maintained perfect harmony with five clean sheets. Cubarsi averages over three clearances and 89 passes per match with over 96% accuracy.
For Barcelona, this spells a bigger role for Cubarsi next season as the club has yet to sign a new center-back. Despite being only 19, he has already played 128 competitive matches for Barcelona and earned 17 caps for Spain. Familiarity with Hansi Flick's high defensive line further emphasizes his importance going forward.
