Pau Cubarsi does not think there is a debate about the world's best player. Speaking before Barcelona's Champions League trip to Galatasaray, the 19-year-old centre-back said it was Lamine Yamal, and that he deserved the Ballon d'Or.
"Everyone in the world already knows that he is the best in the world," Cubarsi said, as quoted by Marca. "Although he says it, people also see it on the field."
Why he backs his team-mate
Cubarsi was careful about his own claims. He said he could also be "around there" because of the World Cup and the season, but added that he was "going more calmly" while Yamal is "more media-focused". The line is half praise and half joke, and it suggests a dressing room that is relaxed about the attention.
He also said he has noticed a shift in how opponents treat him. Strikers, he said, now come at him with more intensity and aggression after a successful summer. The label of promising youngster has gone.
The Istanbul challenge
Barcelona face a loud crowd in Istanbul. "We know the field we are coming to and the atmosphere that is created," Cubarsi said. "You have to be attentive to the small details." Pedri has played there before and told him it is a difficult place where the home fans press on every move.
Part of the task is dealing with Victor Osimhen. Cubarsi recalled facing the Nigerian striker on his debut and said both players have changed since then. A clean sheet is the main aim for the back line, and he said he is willing to play every minute even though Hansi Flick manages his workload.
Squad depth and the noise outside
He also spoke warmly about Frenkie de Jong, who is back in the squad. De Jong can drop into central defence, which adds competition for places. "He is going to have a great season," Cubarsi said. He brushed aside questions about referees and Real Madrid, insisting the group is focused on its own performance.
Cubarsi called the team's current momentum "unstoppable" but warned that every match brings new problems. The game in Istanbul will test whether he is right.
Match context: Galatasaray v Barcelona, Champions League, Istanbul. Pau Cubarsi, 19, speaking to the media ahead of the game (quotes via Marca). Barcelona manager: Hansi Flick. Source: Goal.
0 Comments