Pau Cubarsi, the 19-year-old centre-back for Barcelona, has emerged as a pivotal figure for Spain during the World Cup, overshadowing even the celebrated Lamine Yamal. As Spain secured a 2-0 victory against a formidable France team, Cubarsi showcased his defensive prowess, contributing to his team's impressive record of six clean sheets in seven matches.

In a match that tested his abilities against Kylian Mbappe, Cubarsi excelled, making more clearances than any other player. His performance was lauded by former Barcelona player Oscar Garcia, who boldly predicted that Cubarsi could become one of the top five centre-backs in history.

Key highlights from Cubarsi's performance include:

• Only Rodri surpassed his passing numbers at the tournament.
• Achieved a remarkable pass completion rate of 96.2%.
• Demonstrated exceptional one-on-one defensive skills, earning praise for his cleverness and speed.

Cubarsi's contributions extend beyond defense; he is also recognized for his positive distribution, often initiating attacks from the back. His ability to play through-balls ranks him among the best, alongside legends like Messi.

Despite his youth, Cubarsi's experience is significant, having debuted in LaLiga before turning 17 and amassing over 100 appearances for Barcelona. His maturity in high-pressure situations, including a notable learning moment when he was sent off against Atletico Madrid, underscores his growth.

With the World Cup final on the horizon, Cubarsi stands on the brink of history, potentially joining an elite group of players who have started and won a World Cup final. As he continues to develop, both Barcelona and Spain look to him as a cornerstone of their future success.