Former Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has lauded the talent and maturity of Pau Cubarsi, a 17-year-old defender making waves at the Catalan club. Speaking on The Ranveer Show, Gundogan expressed his astonishment at the young player’s composure, decision-making, and personality, describing them as being well beyond his years.

Recalling his first impression of Cubarsi during training sessions at Barcelona, Gundogan admitted to being unaware of the youngster’s age when they first crossed paths.

“Before Cubarsi started with the first team, I watched him in training and it was clear that he was very talented. I thought he was 20 or 21 because he looked mature and had a strong personality. His decisions were like those of a 25-year-old player,” Gundogan revealed.

It wasn’t until a conversation with one of Xavi’s assistants that Gundogan learned of Cubarsi’s true age, which left him stunned.

“I was shocked when I found out he was only 17,” he added.

A Rising Star at Barcelona

Pau Cubarsi has emerged as one of the most promising talents in Barcelona’s famed academy. Known for his calm demeanor on the ball, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute to build-up play, Cubarsi has already started earning comparisons to seasoned defenders. His progress under the guidance of Xavi and the first-team staff highlights Barcelona’s commitment to nurturing young talent, staying true to their La Masia legacy.

Gundogan’s Influence and Legacy

Gundogan, who joined Barcelona in 2023 after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer, spent a year at Camp Nou before returning to the Premier League champions. During his time in Spain, Gundogan played alongside and mentored some of the club’s emerging stars, including Cubarsi. His praise for the youngster not only reflects Cubarsi’s immense potential but also underscores Gundogan’s role as a seasoned leader who recognizes talent.

Opinion: The Future of Barcelona’s Defense

Cubarsi’s rapid development is a testament to Barcelona’s ability to identify and cultivate talent, even during challenging periods. With Gundogan’s glowing endorsement and Xavi’s trust in his abilities, Cubarsi appears poised to become a cornerstone of Barcelona’s defense in the coming years.

However, the challenge for the club will be ensuring his growth is managed carefully, shielding him from the pressures that come with early success while providing opportunities to hone his craft at the highest level.

Gundogan’s admiration for Cubarsi serves as a reminder that age is just a number when it comes to footballing intelligence and maturity. For Barcelona fans, it’s exciting to think about the heights this young defender could reach with time and experience.

Conclusion

As Barcelona continues to rebuild its squad with a mix of experience and youth, Pau Cubarsi represents the bright future of the club. With endorsements from football veterans like Ilkay Gundogan, the youngster’s rise is a storyline to watch, offering hope for a new era of success at Camp Nou. Fans can only hope that Cubarsi’s talent flourishes under the spotlight, continuing the tradition of excellence that has defined Barcelona’s academy products for decades.