As the FIFA World Cup 2026™ draws closer, we are spotlighting some youngsters seemingly set to illuminate the beautiful game’s greatest tournament.
Pau Cubarsi
Date of birth: 22.01.2007
Teams: Spain & Barcelona
International debut: 22 March 2024 v Colombia (aged 17)
Position: Centre-back
Standout skills: Technique, playing out from the back, composure
Why Cubarsi could be a World Cup sensation
Despite having only turned 19 a few months ago, the Spanish starlet has racked up over 135 appearances for Barça. Every inch the modern centre-back, he plays a key role in initiating the build-up for both club and country.
Boasting a trophy haul that belies his tender years, he has lifted several pieces of domestic silverware with his boyhood club. What’s more, he has shone brightly for the Catalan giants on the European stage and started both legs of last season’s rip-roaring UEFA Champions League semi-final showdown against Inter Milan. Former Barça boss Xavi Hernandez handed the then 16-year-old ball-playing centre-back his first-team debut on 18 January 2024 in the 3-1 Copa del Rey round-of-16 victory at third-tier Unionistas de Salamanca.
Just two months and four days later, the Catalan-born prodigy was celebrating another red-letter day as he made a cameo appearance for La Roja in their friendly meeting with Colombia at London Stadium.
Cubarsi, who helped Spain to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, came up through the ranks at a club renowned for backing home-grown talent, and his emergence offers a clear reminder that La Masia produces more than just midfield magicians and formidable forwards. Indeed, in that sense, he is carrying the baton once held by a pair by the names of Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol.
The right-footed central defender is part of a fresh-faced crop of Blaugrana ballers that includes Lamine Yamal, who also entered the world in 2007. Although he has only 11 senior national-team caps to his name, Cubarsi completed the full 90 minutes in three of Luis de la Fuente’s side’s final four qualifiers for this year’s edition of the global showpiece.
Cubarsi’s magic moments
Enjoy highlights of the moments that have made the Barcelona and Spain star one of the World Cup 2026’s players to watch.
What’s been said about Cubarsi
“Anyone who’s watched Pau knows just how good he is. We’ve known all about him since his days in the youth set-up, so we’re well aware he has bags of potential. We never look at a player’s age, only what they’re capable of.”
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente
“I think he’s an era-defining player. For me, he’s indispensable. When the opposition press us high, he always chooses the best option. He knows when to play the ball into midfield and does that so well. He always recovers very well and wins his duels. You wouldn’t think he was only 17.”
Former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez
“They [Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal] are unusual cases because despite their age, they’ve got the personality to cope with the pressure that comes with playing for Barça. On top of that, they have real quality. And they’re rubbing shoulders with players who’re establishing themselves.”
Barcelona sporting director Deco
“It’s incredible to watch how well Cuba defends. He’s young, he’s only 19 and he has real quality. In terms of his performances, he’s right up there with Lamine [Yamal]. We’re very fortunate to have him. Then you realise how long he’s already been playing at this level. I’m delighted to have him here.”
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick
“I think Pau is an incredible player with a very bright future ahead of him. I believe we’ve got a centre-back for years to come. What he’s achieving is so impressive. He’s only 17 and yet he’s performing with such composure. I think we’ve got a central defender for the next 15 years… he’s such a complete player.”
Former Barça captain Carles Puyol
