La Liga Newcomer Pau Cubarsi Teams Up with Lamine Yamal in Xavi Starting Lineup
Barcelona coach Xavi made a bold move by including two 16-year-olds in the starting XI for the match against Real Betis, with Pau Cubarsi earning his La Liga debut. This decision came just days after Cubarsi's impressive senior debut against Unionistas in the Copa del Rey. Alongside him, Lamine Yamal, another academy graduate, joined as the youngest players on the team. Cubarsi could potentially celebrate his 17th birthday on Monday with a standout performance.
Xavi expressed admiration for Cubarsi's abilities, especially after his 45-minute display against third-tier opposition midweek: "Cubarsí is ready to play tomorrow and in any game. He played with great personality in the Cup and he did very well. We have a lot of hope for him. He’s very young but we believe he’s ready."
In the broader context, while Cubarsi enjoys his debut in the Spanish top-flight, Yamal has almost solidified his position as a first-team regular. Yamal has participated in all 19 of Barca's La Liga matches this season, starting seven, and featured in all six of their Champions League matches.
Looking ahead, Xavi will rely on these young talents to step up, especially with Barcelona facing the risk of falling out of the La Liga title race. Recent struggles have fueled reports of pressure on Xavi at the Catalan club, suggesting that he could be compelled to step down if results don't improve soon.
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