Barcelona defender excelling at the World Cup – no goals conceded in five matches | OneFootball

At the start of the year, Barcelona fans weren’t overly confident about whether Pau Cubarsi would be a regular starter for Spain in the World Cup this summer.

Thanks to improved performances coupled with Dean Huijsen’s decline in form, Cubarsi has become a key lynchpin in Luis de la Fuente’s setup.

In fact, the Barcelona star has been one of the best-performing defenders in the World Cup so far and that has been backed by data as well.

Cubarsi yet to concede a goal

Cubarsi has been exceptional in this World Cup. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

As a matter of fact, Cubarsi has yet to concede a single goal at the World Cup, which is quite extraordinary considering the fact that he has already featured in five matches.

Starting alongside Aymeric Laporte, Cubarsi has created a formidable partnership, with his ball-playing abilities serving Spain in the build-up play.

It has particularly aided someone like Pedro Porro or Marcos Llorente, who like to make marauding runs into the opposition half. Cubarsi has been exceptionally efficient in feeding those forward balls to right-backs.

As a result, the Spanish backline has worked in harmony, securing five clean sheets in five matches.

Cubarsi, for his part, is averaging over three clearances per match and 89 passes with an accuracy of over 96%.

A bigger role at Barcelona

Cubasi in action at the World Cup. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Given the sheer impact Cubarsi has had in the World Cup this summer, it is natural that he will have to play a bigger role for Barcelona next season.

The club are still yet to bring in a new centre-back, meaning Cubarsi will become even more important as he looks to maintain the same level of solidity alongside the likes of Eric Garcia, Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen.

Despite being only 19, Cubarsi has featured in 128 competitive matches for Barcelona as well as winning 17 caps for La Roja. His experience cannot be ignored.

Cubarsi is also accustomed to Hansi Flick’s high defensive line, so his leadership will be crucial as Barcelona look to maintain their dominance in Spanish football next season.

Stats: Whoscored