Xavi calls up 16-year-old Barcelona defensive prodigy for Villarreal clash

Barcelona have traditionally been recognised as a club that places emphasis on the development of its youth prospects.

Like a sculptor chiseling raw marble into statues, Barça have honed their reputation as a sanctuary for budding stars to evolve.

Since Xavi arrived at the club, there has been a special focus on adhering to the long-standing practice of grooming the youth from La Masia.

After already seeing the meteoric rise of several gems from the academy, including the likes of Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and Lamine Yamal, it appears more names will soon be added to this list.

Pau Cubarsi in the squad for Villarreal vs Barça

Now, Pau Cubarsi, who is just 16 years old, has been included in the squad for the Villarreal match.

With Barça being unable to call upon Ronald Araujo due to injury and Inigo Martinez still in the final stages of his recovery, the Blaugrana backline could do with some added depth.

As such, Pau Cubarsi appears to have impressed the coaching staff and has earned an opportunity to be on the squad list, a major leap for a player still plying his trade with the Juvenil A team.

16-year old centre-back Pau Cubarsí is included in the squad list for the game against Villarreal. pic.twitter.com/ov7EzIaPJe

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 26, 2023

Who is Pau Cubarsi?

Cubarsi has been with Barcelona’s academy since 2018, having joined from the Girona youth setup. The youngster has made rapid strides through the youth ranks and was first called up to train with the first team by Xavi in April earlier this year.

Since then, the 16-year-old has signed his first professional contract with the club and trained with the first-team squad during pre-season.

The teenager is known for his grit at the back and ability to play out maturely from the defence. Cubarsi possesses a strong sense of leadership and is skilled at clearing the ball.

The likelihood of him featuring against Villarreal is low, but in the event Barcelona are able to secure a dominant lead, he may end up receiving minutes in the closing stages of the match.

Nonetheless, being a part of the first team is a major feat and the decision to add him to the squad highlights Xavi’s faith in youngsters.