Barcelona defender Paulo Cubasi was recently interviewed world sports newsin which he discusses various things related to the team.
As well as talking about the Catalans’ recent form (consecutive losses to Atletico Madrid and Girona), the young defender also spoke about his personal growth within the team, his cooperation with other defenders and the tactical approach of head coach Hansi Flick.
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On his growth
At just 19 years old, Cubas has played more than 100 games for Barcelona and is an undisputed starter under Hansi Flick, and he admits that everything happens very quickly for him.
“The truth is that everything happened very quickly for me and I barely had time to realize what I was doing, but I’m happy and always proud to be part of the club of my life and if I can keep getting playing time and experience, I’m happy,” he said.
Statistics show that he has the highest passing accuracy and duel success rate among European under-21 centre-backs. While he appreciates his achievements, he remains grounded.
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“That’s fine with me, they’re good statistics, but I’m not a guy who pays too much attention to them. I’m happy with the job I’ve done,” Kubalsi pointed out.
“I know there are things I have to improve on and I will improve them, but it’s all a learning process and I’m proud to be at this level.”
Speaking about his style of play and references in the game, the youngster said: “I’ve always said that Puyol and Pique are my references.
“At Barca they teach you more how to play with one touch, how to pass the ball, which is what suits me best because I’ve been here for many years, but when you have to do something strong, correct and powerful, you have to do it.”
Regarding areas where he needs improvement, Cubas admitted: “Nothing is perfect, no one is perfect, although you always have to strive for excellence. I think I can improve little by little.
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“Over time I gained experience, which is important for the big games. It’s always important to pay attention to the small details and keep improving.”
On Frick and his tactics
Kubas performed well under Flick. (Photo by Aito Alcalde/Getty Images)
Kubalsi then spoke highly of head coach Hansi Flick and his relationship with Barcelona’s players, many of whom view the German as a father figure.
“He almost always gave us the same advice, to be ourselves, to be confident and secure because we are so good and we have to show it on the pitch.” said the teenage defender.
“From the outside, he may have given us a lot of scolding, but deep down, he always tried to help us and protect us. The fact is that he is a very good coach.”
Regarding Barcelona’s high defensive line tactics adopted under the German and the criticism it has faced recently, Kubasi said:
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“Since Flick arrived, he has come here with his own ideas and that’s what we have been practicing. From the outside, it may look very risky, but I think the coach’s ideas and ours are all about integrating with his ideas.”
“Because we saw last season it worked well for us. Sometimes we have to adjust four things, and that’s normal, but I think we did a good job and we have to continue on that path.”
Considering that Barcelona has conceded more goals this season, whether this tactic can be successful in the Champions League? La Masia The defender commented:
“The backline and the goalkeeper like clean sheets. With a high defence, we probably take more risks, but I think that also helps us because it means the forwards have to be active and press hard, which helps those of us at the back.
“We may concede goals but we are very reliable and we can come back or win games.”
Cubas continued: “As I said, from the outside it seems like a risk that if someone doesn’t start it won’t work, but in big games we have to be as focused as possible and make things work because that’s the coach’s philosophy and we fully support him.”
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About teammates – past and present
Cubas, who played alongside Inigo Martinez last season, played a key role in Barcelona’s domestic treble success. He also spoke fondly of the veteran defender who left the club last summer.
“Last year under Inigo I had the opportunity to play more games because Ronald and Andreas were probably injured more and our roles were more important. He is a very reliable teammate and he always helps me because he is experienced. I feel safe with him.”
At the same time, he also highlighted his defensive partners this season, such as Eric Garcia, Ronald Araujo and Gerald Martin, saying:
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“But this year I have to take a step forward and that’s what I’m trying to do. At the Olympics I also shared the dressing room and the defense with Eric and it worked out well for us. Like Gerrard and Ronald now coming back, with Eric we form a great duo.”
Key player for Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Regarding Eric Garcia’s character, Cubas added:
“We laughed a lot with Eric outside the dressing room, he’s an incredible guy, but on the pitch we always try to stay focused. He keeps me focused and I try to keep him focused.”
The youngster also said he was delighted Araujo was back in action after taking a mental health break.
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“We’re very happy to have him back and, personally, he was one of the first people to welcome me into the dressing room when I came in.” Kubalsi said.
“He almost acts like a father, so I’m very happy and proud to have him back. Now he should be enjoying what he loves most, which is football, and we know that if he’s here it’s to help us and that’s what he’ll do.”
On transfer targets
Regarding potential reinforcements, such as natural left-footed centre-back Alessandro Bastoni being targeted, he focused on the current squad while praising the Inter Milan star.
“Yes, he is a great centre-back. I have met him a few times and we all know the level he is at. But it depends on the people up there. We believe we have great centre-backs and we are very happy with the job that all our defenders are doing.” he said.
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Regarding the situation at the No. 9 position, Julian Alvarez is being considered as Robert Lewandowski’s replacement, adding:
“Julian is a great player. I played against him a lot and had to defend him. He is a world-class striker at Barca level, but Robert and Ferran were both very good and helped us a lot.”
Finally, he sent a clear message to supporters dreaming of European glory.
“They will stay with us because we will fight until the end as usual and we will try to win the Champions League and all possible titles so that we are all happy and can celebrate a great season.” he concluded.
