The spotlight at the latest Catalan Football Federation awards ceremony fell on Pau Cubarsi, a night that perfectly summed up his rapid and remarkable rise at Barcelona.
The teenage centre-back was named best young male player, a deserved honour after a season that has seen him establish himself at the very heart of Barça’s defence.
What makes Cubarsi’s breakthrough even more striking is his age. At just 18, he has become a regular starter in one of the most demanding positions on the pitch, a rarity at the elite level.
Cubarsi’s condition
Under Hansi Flick, the defender has shown composure, discipline and consistency, qualities usually associated with far more experienced players.
Asked about how he manages the physical and mental load of playing at the highest level week after week, Cubarsi pointed to his mindset and support system, saying,
“Mentally, I’m doing well. I’ve always been a very focused guy. They have helped me a lot at home.
“The desire to keep improving also helps. It’s difficult to do it every three days, but if you give it your all, you’ll always be rewarded.”
Facing Espanyol
The timing of the awards could not be more symbolic, with Barcelona preparing for one of their most intense fixtures of the season – the city derby against Espanyol.
⭐️ 𝟏𝟑𝐚 𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐬 ⭐️
💛❤️ El futur del futbol català 💛❤️
⚽️ Pau Cubarsí i Clara Serrajordi @FCBarcelona_cat @FCBfemeni
📍 Antiga Fàbrica @EstrellaDammCat#GalaEstrelles pic.twitter.com/Q8hsJSo69D
— Federació Catalana de Futbol (@FCF_CAT) December 29, 2025
This clash promises to be more competitive than usual, with both sides enjoying strong runs of form.
Cubarsi acknowledged the challenge ahead and the shift in Barcelona’s momentum after a slow start to the campaign, explaining,
“Both teams are going into the derby in good form. They are having a great season and we didn’t start very well, but now we have picked up the pace and are playing well.
“Let’s hope it’s a good game and we come away with the win.”
Notably, Cubarsi has also had to adjust to changes within the squad. The departure of Inigo Martinez meant a reshuffle in defence, and Flick’s decision to pair Cubarsi with Gerard Martin raised a few eyebrows early on.
The young defender, however, has nothing but praise for his teammate’s contribution, saying,
“Gerard Martin is having a spectacular season. He is a very hard-working guy. That’s helped him when he’s had to step up.
“Now we have to share centre-back partners and he’s doing very well,” he concluded.