Barcelona's recent victory against Napoli in the UEFA Champions League not only marked their progression to the quarter-finals but also unveiled a rising star in the form of 17-year-old centre-back, Pau Cubarsi. Branded a 'star of the future' by TNT Sports expert Owen Hargreaves, Cubarsi's performance drew comparisons to defensive legends Ronald Koeman, Carles Puyol, and Gerard Pique.

Young Blood Shines: In a thrilling encounter, early goals from Fermin Lopez and Joao Cancelo set the tone for Barcelona's dominance in the round-of-16 second leg. Despite relying on veteran talent, it was the young guns who stole the spotlight. Notably, 16-year-old winger Lamine Yamal and the record-breaking 17-year-old centre-back, Pau Cubarsi, showcased a glimpse of Barcelona's promising future.

Cubarsi's Historic Feat: Cubarsi made history by becoming the youngest defender ever to feature in a Champions League knockout match. His composed performance was pivotal in securing the victory, making 68 more passes than any of his teammates. Glenn Hoddle, a TNT Sports expert, couldn't help but praise Cubarsi's defensive prowess, likening him to Ronald Koeman at his prime. Hargreaves echoed the sentiment, drawing parallels with Barcelona legends Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique.

Defying Expectations: Despite his age, Cubarsi displayed a maturity beyond his years, effortlessly picking out passes and exhibiting exceptional physicality against Napoli's formidable Victor Osimhen. Hargreaves emphasized the rarity of a Spanish centre-back possessing such physical prowess at such a young age.

In a football landscape often dominated by established names, Pau Cubarsi's emergence as a defensive prodigy adds a refreshing layer to Barcelona's narrative. As fans eagerly anticipate his future performances, the echoes of praise from football experts set the stage for Cubarsi to become a linchpin in Barcelona's defensive legacy. The "star of the future" has arrived, and his name is Pau Cubarsi.Stay tuned for exclusive updates on our platform.

Reference: Source: [Eurosport]