Pau Cubarsí is anticipated to be included in the Spanish national team squad for upcoming friendlies.
Pau Cubarsí is poised to be a major addition to the upcoming Spanish national team squad for the friendlies against Colombia in London and Brazil at the Santiago Bernabéu on March 22nd and 26th respectively. While awaiting official confirmation, according to Ferran Martinez of Mundo Deportivo its anticipate the young Barcelona center-back’s inclusion by De la Fuente, potentially displacing Dani Vivian (24) or Igor Zubeldia (26), who were previously considered likely replacements for the injured David García. However, Cubarsí’s emergence has changed the landscape significantly.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) acknowledged Cubarsí’s potential as a future central defender weeks ago, but his standout performances in recent matches for Barcelona, including being named MVP in his Champions League debut against Napoli, have elevated him to the present. Credible sources consulted by MD consider his selection a certainty, with his absence from De la Fuente’s list on Friday being the surprise. The coach, known for his clear vision and preference for continuity, initially relied on David García, but the Osasuna defender is currently sidelined.
To fill the void, De la Fuente was considering names like Dani Vivian from Athletic Club and Igor Zubeldia from Real Sociedad, a player he has closely monitored since taking charge. Initially, Cubarsí’s emergence in Barcelona’s first team suggested he would be part of the U21 squad under Santi Denia’s leadership for the March call-up, with Denia also set to coach the Olympic team for the upcoming Paris Games.
Cubarsí is also being considered for the Olympics and, if his progress continues, could participate in the Euro Cup and Olympics in the same summer, akin to Pedri in 2021, a situation that may not sit well with Barcelona.
