Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has made a surprising statement regarding one of his defensive prodigies.
Hansi Flick Defends Pau Cubarsí: “He Is on Par with Lamine Yamal”
Flick claims that teenage center-back Pau Cubarsí is performing at a level that matches the incredible standards set by Lamine Yamal.
The German coach spoke to the media on the eve of Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Newcastle United.
During the press conference, Flick heaped praise on the 19-year-old Spaniard. He made it clear that he views Cubarsí as just as important to the team as their famous winger.
Despite his young age, Pau Cubarsí has become a mainstay in the Barcelona defense. He regularly features as one of the first names on the team sheet.
However, his rapid rise has drawn some criticism from sections of the Blaugrana faithful. Some fans believe the teenager has become slightly overrated this season.
Flick sees the situation very differently. The headmaster, as he is referred to in the text, took the opportunity to set the record straight.
“For me, Pau Cubarsí is on the same level as Lamine Yamal, but in defence,” Flick told the press.
The coach didn’t just stop at the comparison. He went on to explain exactly why he rates the young stopper so highly.
Flick highlighted the defender’s technical skills and football intelligence. He pointed out a specific moment that impressed him recently.
“How Cubarsí defends,” Flick continued.
“He took a throw-in like a corner kick. He is 19 years old and can play at the highest level he can imagine.”
Flick’s comparison to Yamal is significant. The 17-year-old winger is widely considered the biggest talent to come out of La Masia in a decade.
By putting Cubarsí in the same conversation, Flick is sending a clear message to the fans and critics alike.
While Yamal dazzles with goals and dribbles in attack, Cubarsí provides calm and leadership at the back.
Flick believes his defensive awareness and composure on the ball are just as vital to the team’s success.
For Barcelona, having two teenagers performing at an elite level bodes well for the future.
If Cubarsí continues to follow Flick’s instructions, he will silence his doubters and continue to prove he belongs in the same bracket as Yamal.
