The new season has started with several tactical tests from Hansi Flick, but there is one certainty at FC Barcelona: Pau Cubarsí is the only untouchable center-back in the squad. At just 18 years old, the youth academy product has established himself as an essential piece in the heart of the culer defense. His status within the locker room is absolute and everyone at the club is aware that he will be the defensive leader for the coming years.
The experiment on the left
After Iñigo Martínez's departure, Hansi Flick decided to experiment with Pau Cubarsí on the left side of the defense. The idea was to give the team more balance and take advantage of his ability to read the game. However, the test hasn't fully convinced him.
The young center-back loses clarity when playing out from the back and doesn't look as comfortable when positioning himself toward his weaker foot. Although he performed well defensively, he hasn't managed to offer the same level as on the right side, where he makes better use of his technique and vision.
A testing ground
In the first league matches, Flick continued with this experiment. Even in the last match, he decided that Pau Cubarsí would start on the bench, looking for alternatives to adjust the defense.
The conclusion is clear: Cubarsí must return to playing on the right side, his natural position and where he truly makes a difference. "Mundo Deportivo" has revealed that Flick has taken note and is preparing changes for the fourth La Liga matchday against Valencia: "You're going to switch to the right".
The dilemma of the partner
The big question now is to determine who will be his partner on the left side. Hansi Flick has several options: Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric García, or even Gerard Martín, who has impressed in preseason as a defender.
Each one offers different qualities. Araujo guarantees physical power and speed, although he also feels more comfortable on the right side. Christensen brings calm and experience, while Eric can provide fluidity when playing out from the back. Meanwhile, Gerard Martín is the bet for the future that the coach doesn't rule out.
The importance in Flick's project
Beyond the tactical tests, Hansi Flick is very clear that Cubarsí is the cornerstone of his defense. His maturity, reliability in duels, and ability to start plays from the back make him indispensable, even above footballers with more experience at the top level.
Barça has secured the center-back and wants to make him one of its main references for the coming years. The commitment is firm and the first months of competition will serve to adjust the defense around him.
After this start with tests and adjustments, the verdict is clear: Pau Cubarsí will return to the right side. Hansi Flick doesn't want to take more risks and believes that's where the youth academy product offers his best version. Now everything depends on who will accompany him on the left, but what is not up for debate is that Barça's untouchable center-back already has a guaranteed place in the starting eleven.