Cubarsí’s Rapid Rise: From La Masia to Stardom at Barcelona

omidbasir- The transition from a La Masia prospect to a first-team starter occurred so swiftly for Cubarsí that it left Robert Lewandowski in disbelief. The teenage prodigy made his official debut in January 2024 during a Copa del Rey match against Unionistas de Salamanca, just days before turning 17.

Shortly thereafter, Cubarsí made his full La Liga debut against Real Betis, impressing fans and players alike, which led to a humorous exchange with the former Bayern Munich striker. He recounted, “The day after my debut as a starter, Xavi congratulated me and wished me a happy birthday in front of everyone. Robert Lewandowski approached me and said, ‘Are you really 17?’ He could not believe what he saw. Perhaps I still had the face of a child.”

Cubarsí’s journey to the pinnacle of football has been closely aligned with that of his close friend and fellow talent, Lamine Yamal. Both have ascended through the ranks together, although Cubarsí admits that training sessions against Yamal can be a bruising experience for his ego. He recounted a particular incident where Yamal’s skill left him embarrassed during a training drill, resulting in a week of light-hearted teasing from the Euro 2024 champion.

“Lamine and I have practically shared the same professional journey. He has progressed even faster. Playing with him is effortless; you pass him the ball, and he can change the game. Since childhood, he has had an innate ability to decide matches. Once in training, during a one-on-one, he dribbled past me, I slipped, and ended up on the ground. He teased me about it for a week! What he doesn’t mention, though, is that he shot straight at me! As long as it doesn’t end in a goal, it’s fine for a defender,” Cubarsí elaborated.

Life at Barcelona isn’t solely comprised of serious tactical discussions and intense matches; the dressing room culture is often filled with playful banter, as Cubarsí learned after sustaining a facial injury. Following a significant cut during a Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade in late 2024, he was required to wear protective gear for his subsequent matches, which became a source of amusement among his teammates.

Reflecting on the helmet that turned into a talking point, he humorously noted, “To play against Real Sociedad a few days later, I had to wear a protective helmet that made me look like a McDonald’s employee. My teammates began calling me the ‘McDonald’s waiter.'” This anecdote underscores the lighthearted atmosphere that thrives within one of the world’s most talented young squads.

Now at 19 and with over 110 games played, Cubarsí has emerged as a household name in his home country, boasting 10 caps for Spain and starting three of the last four matches for the national team. Despite his rising fame, he emphasizes leading a relatively simple life outside of football.

“At my parents’ house, we have sheep, two dogs, chickens, and ducks,” he shared. “The sheep graze on the lawn, and we enjoy the delicious fresh eggs from our chickens. When I return home, I completely disconnect from everything.”