Barcelona starlet Pau Cubarsí has come in for widespread praise, owing to his efforts to refocus a key member of his side’s attacking ranks over the weekend.
The name of stopper Cubarsí has of course found itself front and centre in the headlines in Catalunya over the course of the last 36 hours.
As much comes after the Spaniard’s latest dominant showing at the heart of Barcelona’s backline.
Whilst the Blaugrana’s attackers took the majority of the plaudits en route to a four-goal haul in their victory over Getafe on Saturday, post-match, more than a few went as far as to suggest that, in fact, Cubarsí was the game’s standout performer.
Still just 17, the defender looked almost scarily at ease in Xavi’s backline, dominating in and out of possession alike.
And yet, as alluded to above, it is not only Cubarsí’s efforts broadcasted on the TV cameras in Montjuïc which have sparked commendation over the days since.
In addition, so too has his remarkable leadership, for a player of such tender years.
As revealed by Mundo Deportivo, the outlet’s matchday photographer, Pere Puntí, captured a wonderful moment between Puntí, and teammate Raphinha.
After the latter missed two glorious opportunities to add to his tally for the day against Getafe, he made his way towards the dressing room looking utterly forlorn.
And, despite Raphinha being nine years his senior, Cubarsí was first on the scene to provide some encouragement.
Putting an arm around the shoulder of the Brazilian international, Barca’s prodigious young defender reassured Raphinha, insisting that he not wallow on what could not be changed.
Conor Laird | GSFN
