Cubarsi, Joan Garcia react after Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club: ‘Rodri will help us reach another level’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Club at Spotify Camp Nou was not just built on goals from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez. 

It was another night that showed the growing confidence within Hansi Flick’s side, with the clean sheet and the performances of several young players earning as much attention as the result itself.

For Pau Cubarsi, Barcelona’s defensive display was particularly satisfying. 

The centre-back felt the team had controlled the game from the outset and, after keeping a second clean sheet in as many matches, pointed to the work being done away from the spotlight.

“It was a very solid match, with a clear game plan, a desire to dominate and a good tempo,” Cubarsi said.

The defender believes Barcelona’s early defensive form is no coincidence.

“We have the best goalkeeper in the world, and the defence is full of confidence,” he added.

Cubarsi hails Xavi Espart

Xavi Espart was once again one of the major talking points after starting at left-back for the second consecutive match.

Cubarsi returned to the starting XI for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Cubarsi knows the youngster better than most, having progressed alongside him through Barcelona’s academy. 

The defender drew parallels with other home-grown talents, including Marc Bernal and Lamine Yamal, as he praised Espart’s ability and versatility.

“We’re very happy that he’s here with us. We’ve grown up together in the youth system, just like with Bernal and Lamine. 

“You’ve all seen it: he’s spectacular on the ball, he can play at full-back and in midfield, and he always does it perfectly,” Cubarsi remarked.

Cubarsi also looked ahead to what Rodri could bring to Barcelona following his arrival, predicting a major role for the newcomer.

“He’ll help us reach another level; he’ll be a leader within the team.”

Raphinha, meanwhile, was another player singled out by the defender after his goal and energetic performance.

“He’s playing at a spectacular level and is raring to go; we have a very well-rounded squad.”

Joan Garcia welcomes quiet night

Before kick-off, Joan Garcia received recognition for being named the best goalkeeper in last season’s league. During the match itself, he was given very little to do.

The Barcelona goalkeeper was happy to keep it that way.

“I’d sign up for every match where nobody shoots at me,” he began.

Garcia was also asked about Unai Simon, his Spain team-mate, who was named MVP of the match. 

Joan Garcia did not have much to do against Athletic Club. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Barcelona goalkeeper saw the award as a reflection of his side’s attacking performance and the opportunities they created.

“We played a great match against an opponent who always makes things difficult. 

“Unai was the best; that means we attacked well and created chances. 

“We could have scored more, but above all we were solid defensively,” analysed the goalkeeper.

Garcia also praised Barcelona’s defensive unit, recognising the demands of the system they are playing.

“Everyone played a brilliant game. The defence, playing in this system which is tricky for them and requires them to stay focused throughout the match, performed at a very high level,” he continued.

Barcelona’s youthful energy is a strength

The 25-year-old goalkeeper returned to the subject of Xavi Espart and the importance of Barcelona’s emerging academy generation.

“Xavi Espart is incredible – yet another player coming through [from the academy]. 

“As far as I can, given that I already feel a bit of a veteran at 25, I try to help and support them,” he said.

Garcia believes there is a different energy around the Barcelona squad this season, with younger players bringing hunger and fresh competition into the group.

“I can see everyone’s really excited. We’ve got a younger squad than last year. 

“We’ve got loads of energy, and we’re really keen to produce some great football with lots of home-grown players.

“We’ve got a fairly well-rounded squad and we can manage playing time effectively. 

“If we don’t push ourselves, we won’t succeed. We’re on the right track, but we’ve only just begun,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo