Martin and Cubarsí: Barça’s solid defensive duo in 2026

Unexpected Defensive Duo Martin and Cubarsí Strengthens Barça’s Backline

Converted left-back Martin boosts the defensive axis alongside Cubarsí under Hansi Flick

BlaugranaNews EditorialMarch 18, 20261 min read

So what

The new partnership brings much-needed stability to the team amid a dip in offensive form.

In the 2026 season, FC Barcelona’s defense found an unlikely but effective partnership: left-back turned central defender Gerard Martin and 19-year-old center-back Pau Cubarsí.

Following Iñigo Martínez's departure last summer, coach Hansi Flick faced challenges in solidifying the central defense. Ronald Araújo, the natural successor, struggled due to mental health issues. Experiments with Eric García and Andreas Christensen didn’t yield consistent results, and the surprising solution was Martin stepping into central defense alongside Cubarsí.

This pairing quickly proved effective, with Barcelona remaining unbeaten in matches where Martin started as a central defender. Flick praises Martin’s strong mentality and focus, while Cubarsí highlights how Martin’s presence allowed him to return to his preferred right-central defensive role, improving team cohesion.

For a Barça side fighting in the Champions League and grappling with a scoring slump from stars like Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, defensive solidity is crucial. The Martin-Cubarsí duo has become a defensive mainstay, providing the team with the reliability and confidence needed to maintain competitiveness this season.