Pau Cubarsi on Aymeric Laporte, Julian Alvarez, and Lionel Messi: A Rising Star's Dream Come True

Pau Cubarsi, the 19-year-old Barcelona defender, is set to become the second-youngest centre-back ever to start a FIFA World Cup final. Ahead of Spain's showdown with Argentina, Cubarsi reflected on his growing partnership with Aymeric Laporte, the challenge posed by Julian Alvarez, and the opportunity to share the pitch with his childhood idol, Lionel Messi. Their understanding has played a major role in La Roja's run to the final and has further strengthened Cubarsi's reputation as one of world football's brightest young talents.

Cubarsi has been one of Spain's standout performers throughout the tournament, forming an impressive central defensive partnership with Laporte. Speaking to TV3, Cubarsi explained how comfortable he has felt alongside the experienced defender during Spain's World Cup campaign. 'The World Cup has been the first major tournament in which we've both been in the starting line-up. I've felt very comfortable,' Cubarsi said. 'We've both felt very comfortable. We help each other, we instil confidence in one another and we make ourselves strong so that we concede as few goals as possible. We're doing well.'

The Barcelona youngster also acknowledged the similarities between Laporte and his club teammate Inigo Martinez, suggesting he could easily imagine playing with the former Athletic Club defender at Camp Nou. 'I've already been told that it looks as though it were Inigo (Martinez). They're both Basque, they play on the left, they have very similar profiles, and they've got character.' He added, 'I've played with him here, so I can imagine him playing alongside me.'

Spain's defence will face one of its toughest tests against an Argentina attack led by Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez. Cubarsi reserved special praise for the Atletico Madrid striker, who has also been heavily linked with a future move to Barcelona. 'He's a very skilful player who can find space, cut inside, and has a spectacular shot,' Cubarsi said. 'You always have to be alert, stay close to him, because he can hurt you at any moment.'

For all the tactical preparation, the emotional highlight for Cubarsi will be sharing the pitch with Lionel Messi. Like many young Barcelona academy graduates, the defender grew up watching the Argentine legend dominate world football at Camp Nou, making Sunday's final especially meaningful. Speaking about Messi, Cubarsi said: 'I used to have shirts with Neymar's and Piqué's names on them, but Messi has always been there. He's been one of my idols. Both I and all the Barça fans have a very special affection for him.' Cubarsi concluded, 'To be able to share the pitch with him, at such a young age, is a dream come true.'

Cubarsi's growth as a player is a testament to the strong development system at Barcelona. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, young players like Cubarsi have the opportunity to hone their skills and develop into top-level defenders. The Barcelona defender's partnership with Laporte is a prime example of the benefits of experienced defenders mentoring younger players. Together, they have formed a formidable defensive unit that has been instrumental in Spain's success in the tournament.

As the young defender continues to grow in the sport, he will likely face challenges both on and off the pitch. However, Cubarsi's humility and passion for the game make him an ideal candidate to succeed at the highest level. In the future, fans can expect to see more of Cubarsi on the pitch, working alongside Laporte to form an unstoppable defensive duo. With his impressive progress and dedication to the sport, Cubarsi is undoubtedly a player to watch out for in the coming years.