Aymeric Laporte explains what makes Barcelona star Pau Cubarsi so special: ‘Doesn’t make mistakes for a player his age’ | OneFootball

Aymeric Laporte has offered a glowing assessment of Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi after the pair formed one of Spain’s most effective defensive partnerships during their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The Athletic Club defender spoke about Cubarsi during an appearance on Mario Suarez’s YouTube channel, reflecting on the Barcelona centre-back’s maturity despite his young age.

Laporte and Cubarsi worked together throughout the tournament and conceded just one goal when paired in Spain’s defence. 

Despite that record, neither defender was included in the official shortlist for the World Cup’s Best XI.

That omission did little to change Laporte’s view of the Barcelona teenager, who he believes has already developed qualities that are unusual for a player of his age.

Laporte impressed by Cubarsi’s maturity

Laporte highlighted Cubarsi’s decision-making and defensive awareness as the standout features of his game, particularly given the risks young defenders can often take.

“He’s a very young and reliable player.

“He doesn’t make the mistakes typical of players his age – who often take too many risks and don’t realise where the danger lies. 

Laporte has nothing but praise for Pau Cubarsi. (Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)

“He’s fantastic. He’s got plenty of room for improvement and is well on his way,” said the Athletic Club veteran.

Lamine Yamal also earns major praise

Laporte also discussed another Barcelona player who played a central role for Spain, with Lamine Yamal continuing to attract attention because of his ability to influence matches from wide areas.

The defender explained why opponents find the winger so difficult to contain.

“He is a player who really makes a difference. He always draws more than one defender towards him; he’s very difficult to stop.

“Technically, he’s exceptional, and he’ll keep getting better and go on to achieve great things.”

Laporte’s comments come after a tournament in which Spain’s young core once again attracted significant attention, with Cubarsi and Yamal among the players viewed as important parts of the country’s future.

Laporte on Barcelona links and Ballon d’Or contenders

Laporte was also linked with Barcelona after the World Cup, with a potential reunion with Cubarsi discussed. 

Laporte feels Lamine Yamal is one of the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The younger defender had previously acknowledged that he could imagine playing alongside Laporte at club level, although Athletic Club remained firm over the possibility of losing the experienced centre-back.

Ultimately, the move never happened.

Asked about never having represented either Barcelona or Real Madrid despite his career at the highest level, Laporte pointed to the enormous profile that comes with joining either Spanish giant.

“They have the biggest marketing clout in the world of football. Any player they sign takes their profile to the next level in terms of marketing.

“These are facts and there’s no arguing with them. Had I gone there, I’m sure I’d have had a different level of exposure.”

The conversation then turned to the Ballon d’Or race, where Laporte identified several names rather than selecting a single favourite.

“Kane has good stats. Lamine and Rodri could be in the running,” he concluded.