Cubarsi talks Fermin, Garcia, Araujo, Mbappe, El Clasico – ‘We need to be cautious’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s defence has not been the same since Inigo Martinez’s departure, with the structure and high-line taking a significant hit in terms of efficiency.

In the veteran’s absence, Pau Cubarsi has assumed leadership at the back. While he may not be perfect at 18 years of age, the youngster has indeed stepped up to lead from the front.

At this point in the season, the manager still does not have a clear-cut preferential central defensive pairing, but what is clear is that Hansi Flick sees Cubarsi to be a de facto starter.

Cubarsi opens up

Speaking to the media earlier today, the Barcelona youngster opened up on a plethora of topics, primarily on El Clasico and Barcelona’s chances on the night.

First, however, he was asked his opinion on La Liga cancelling Barcelona’s game against Villarreal in Miami, to which Cubarsi said,

“We were all somewhat against travelling abroad. The Spanish League should be played here.”

He was then asked about some of his teammates, primarily about Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo, and which of the two players he preferred playing with.

“I love playing with both of them, and I get along with them off the pitch as well,” he began.

“Eric is distinguished by his ability to bring the ball out from the back, while Ronald possesses tremendous physical strength,” he added.

Elaborating on his partnership with Garcia and whether he himself preferred playing on the right or left side of central defence, Cubarsi said,

“Eric is a great teammate, and I played with him in the Olympics. We’re all at a great level, and the important thing is having competition among us.”

“I don’t prefer a specific side, but the right side is my natural position. However, I’m ready to play anywhere to help the team,” he added.

On Fermin Lopez’s hat-trick last night in the UEFA Champions League, he said,

“What Fermin did against Olympiacos was amazing. I’m so happy for him and for my teammates. We’re happy because the club trusts us.”

Thoughts on El Clasico

The topic of the interview then shifted to El Clasico, with the player first asked what the key to defeating Real Madrid was.

“Sticking to our philosophy. Last year, it worked for us. Now the teams have evolved, and we need to adjust some small details that will allow us to be better.”

Cubarsi vs Mbappe incoming this weekend. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

When asked if Barcelona can inflict a heavy defeat on Real Madrid this season as they did so many times last term, the player humbly said,

“We focus only on delivering a good match and securing the three points. We want to be at the top because that gives us an advantage.”

“The fans love La Manita [five goals scored], but we take things calmly. We want to score many goals and keep our clean sheet,” he added.

Kylian Mbappe enters the game in great form, and the defender was asked how he planned to stop the French goalscoring monster.

“Everyone knows who Mbappe is. We have to be alert to him and to all Real Madrid players, as they are world-class.”

“If we adjust some details, things can go well. We have to stop him in the best way possible, but the most important thing is to focus on ourselves,” he added.

The teenager was then asked if Barcelona could use the high defensive line against Real Madrid this time around, especially given how it has not quite gone to plan so far this season, to which he said,

“Last season, we delivered a great match. This season, like every season, the teams have evolved, and so have we. We need to be cautious of their deep movements, as they are what can hurt us.”

He also insisted that Barcelona cannot be considered less favourite than last season, despite the difference in both teams’ form.

“Deep down, we don’t feel that way. It will be a great match, and the fans will definitely enjoy it. The key lies in sacrifice and teamwork.”

Finally, the player was asked his best memory from last season’s Clasicos, to which he said,

“Everything went well; we achieved four victories, all of which were important. I think I hold the 5-2 result in the Super Cup as my best memory.”

Source: SPORT