Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has moved to launch a stern defence of Blaugrana defender Pau Cubarsí.
This comes, for those not aware, comes amid regular recent criticism of the youngster.
Cubarsí is of course considered one of the first names on the team sheet in Catalunya’s capital, widely viewed as one of world football’s standout young talents.
Across the early months of the new term, though, the 18-year-old has found himself on the receiving end of frequent condemnation on the part of Barcelona’s supporters.
Many have made clear their belief that Cubarsí is too often let off the hook for individual mistakes, both positionally and in his one-on-one defending.
Speaking to the media in his latest pre-match press conference on Saturday, the subject of such criticism was therefore put to manager Hansi Flick.
And Barca’s headmaster made use of the opportunity to launch a stern defence of Cubarsí:
“How old is he? 18, so it’s normal that he’s not always at his peak level. For me, he’s been at a top level for two seasons. I’m very pleased. If he’s not at his best version, we have to work with him and with the rest.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
