At Just 18 Years Old, Pau Cubarsí Has Established Himself as One of the Big Names in Hansi Flick's Barça. The young center-back exudes personality in the blaugrana defense and has earned the respect of teammates, rivals, and fans alike. His ability to bring the ball out from the back, his calmness under pressure, and his tactical intelligence have been key for Flick to consider him an absolutely indispensable piece.
What is most surprising about Cubarsí is not just his maturity despite his youth, but how he takes on responsibilities typical of a veteran. The German coach has found in him the defender who initiates plays, understands the pace of the game, and anticipates opposing forwards with unusual confidence. In every match, Pau continues to show that he is not here to learn gradually, but to lead right away.
Íñigo Martínez Has Established Himself as His Partner
Beside him, Íñigo Martínez has reemerged as one of the great assets of the defense. Injuries prevented him from having continuity with Xavi Hernández last season, but in this new project, his role has been completely revalued. With Flick, he has found physical and soccer regularity, and this has translated into impeccable performance on the field.
Beyond his defensive reliability and his strength in duels, Íñigo has become an essential figure in the locker room. His experience, character, and leadership have been highly valued by Flick, who considers him one of the emotional pillars of the team. His ability to guide the younger players, especially Cubarsí, has created a solid and balanced central pair that inspires confidence.
Ronald Araujo, in a Slump
The solidity of Cubarsí and Íñigo has led to Ronald Araujo losing prominence. The Uruguayan center-back has been one of Barça's defensive references in recent seasons, but this campaign he has lost his starting position due to the great form of his teammates. Although he is still a highly valued player, his situation has changed radically in a matter of months.
What complicates his future even more is the existence of a 65 million euro release clause valid this summer. Barça, however, has no intention of parting with Araujo, unless he himself asks to leave. Nonetheless, the sports management also knows that a sale could generate significant income at a delicate moment for the club's finances.
The Uruguayan Receives an Irresistible Offer for Barça
Precisely, according to 'El Nacional', Manchester United would be willing to go for Ronald Araujo with an offer that would even exceed the 65 million of his clause. The English club seeks to strengthen its defense with a physical and authoritative profile, and they see the Uruguayan as the leader for their defensive line.
The 'Red Devils' proposal could put both Barça and the player himself in a bind. While the Catalan club doesn't want to part with the Uruguayan, the financial offer would be hard to refuse. Ronald Araujo's future is hanging in the air and will ultimately depend on his will: to stay and fight for his position, or to try his luck in England.