Barcelona's preseason isn't just leaving details on the field. Off the field, there are also moves that have caught the attention inside the locker room and among the coaching staff itself.
One of the most talked-about cases in recent hours features one of the youngest and most promising footballers in the squad.
It's not a matter of goals, assists, or minutes played. It goes further.
It has to do with maturity, mentality, and responsibility. That's why it's drawn so much attention in Hansi Flick's circle.
Since he arrived on the Barça bench, the German coach has wanted to get to know each player's personality up close. What he has found in Pau Cubarsí's case has surprised him, in a good way.
Cubarsí becomes independent and leaves La Masia
At 18, Pau Cubarsí has made a decision that's unusual for boys his age. He has decided to leave La Masia, leave behind the club's residence, and begin a new stage in life: he has become independent.
The center-back has chosen to move into an apartment. He will share the space with his older sister, with whom he'll share this new path outside the protective environment offered by the Barça academy.
It's not a whim or a matter of simple comfort. The decision, according to MB, is due to the player's desire to keep maturing. Also, to take on more responsibilities and adapt his daily routine to the high level of demand that comes with being on the first team.
The news has surprised some, but at the club, it has been interpreted as a sign of unusual maturity.
Professional on and off the field
Cubarsí already left the coaching staff speechless last season with his performance at key moments. Now, in addition, he has started to earn the admiration of the coaching staff for his behavior off the field.
Flick himself has commented privately that "he seems more like an adult than a youth player" and has highlighted his serious, organized, and exemplary attitude.
Cubarsí's behavior, how he takes care of his diet and manages his physical and mental routines, is typical of a veteran professional. That's what the German coach's circle thinks.
In the words of a staff member: "Barça has found itself a company director, not just another footballer."
An example for the new academy players
In addition to feeling mature enough to become independent, he has enrolled in Business Administration and Management. The case is being widely discussed among his La Masia teammates.
Cubarsí will use training camps to study for his new degree and to have a future when soccer is over for him. Maybe his business knowledge will help him stay connected to the world of soccer.
At Barça, they already see him as future captain material. Who knows, maybe in the club's offices when soccer is over for him.