Cubarsi, Martin single out Barcelona winger for praise after win vs Real Betis – ‘Does amazing things’ | OneFootball

Pau Cubarsi was one of the standout performers in Barcelona’s 5-1 victory over Real Betis last night in the Copa del Rey Round of 16, forming a solid defensive partnership with Ronald Araujo.

The young centre-back impressed with the same composure and reliability he has shown alongside Inigo Martinez in previous matches.

Despite being only 17 years old, Cubarsi continues to exude maturity and composure beyond his years.

The centre-half was not the only 17-year-old to shine for Barcelona last night, however, as fellow La Masia graduate Lamine Yamal also dazzled with yet another sublime attacking display.

Cubarsi praises Lamine

Speaking to the media, Cubarsi was full of praise for Lamine Yamal, stating that he had always enjoyed watching the young winger play and now the whole world gets to enjoy it.

“Lamine? I’ve enjoyed watching him for many years, and now the whole world is enjoying him,” he said, as quoted by SPORT.

Reflecting on his own progress with the first team, Cubarsi expressed satisfaction with his development over the past year.

“I’ve had a very positive year. It’s been almost a year since my debut, and I want to keep giving confidence to the coach and the fans. I aim to continue like this,” he stated.

The defender also highlighted the team’s response following a difficult spell before the international break.

“We hit a rough patch, but the break was really helpful for us to refresh and recharge,” he summarised.

Gerard Martin talks up Lamine Yamal

Gerard Martin praised Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Another youngster who had a solid game was left-back Gerard Martin, who stepped into the starting XI last night in place of Alejandro Balde.

The 22-year-old also spoke highly of Lamine after the teenage Golden Boy’s stunning display in attack for Barcelona.

“Yes, in every game he does amazing things. There are also a lot of big players who are doing great in games,” he told Barça One.

Martin came close to scoring his first goal for Barcelona last night, but it was not meant to be for the left-back. Reflecting on that moment, he said:

“Yes, actually I had a great feeling at that moment… It was a great thing for me to try and score my first goal for Barcelona. I dribbled past the defence but it went too close.”

Discussing the team’s performance and the start to 2025 after a lacklustre finish to 2024, Martin added:

“Yes, we knew that winning the Super Cup was an important start, and it was essential to start with a win in the Copa del Rey to keep that momentum going. We’re very happy.”

On whether he thinks Barcelona are back to their best, the Spaniard remarked: “Yes, as I said, after the difficult period we went through, we are now over it and we are in 100% great shape.”

Martin also expressed his happiness to be receiving chances and being able to make contributions on the pitch, saying: “I’m very happy to have these opportunities and I try to make the most of them.”