Cubarsi talks Lamine, De Jong, Osimhen, perfect start, referees ahead of Galatasaray vs Barcelona

Cubarsi talks Lamine, De Jong, Osimhen, perfect start, referees ahead of Galatasaray vs Barcelona FC Barcelona lock horns with Galatasaray in the second round of the league phase of the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League tomorrow in Istanbul. The Blaugrana go into the game without some key players, including captain Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong, but are favourites to win, having registered nine victories in nine matches so far across all competitions. Ahead of the game tomorrow, young defender Pau Cubarsi accompanied Hansi Flick for the press conference and spoke to the media, touching on several topics, including his workload and the team’s exceptional start to the season. Cubarsi on facing Galatasaray Kicking things off, Cubarsi spoke about Galatasaray and the threat they pose at home, naming Victor Osimhen as a player to watch out in particular. “We faced Osimhen a few years ago, and things might have changed somewhat. They’re a well-organized opponent, they play at home, and that’s important; we’ll have to be wary of their attacks,” he said. “I played against Osimhen a few seasons ago and I hope he’s changed a bit, but I approach it the same way, seriously. He’s one of the best in the world and we have to be focused so he can’t hurt us,” the academy product added. Cubarsi was rested against Getafe. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Cubarsi was rested by Flick in the last game against Getafe but appears all set to start tomorrow in Istanbul. Discussing his playing minutes and workload, the La Masia graduate said: “I’ve been playing a lot of minutes lately and the manager manages my playing time, but I’m always ready and willing to play every minute, because that’s what I love most.” Regarding Barça’s perfect start to the season, Cubarsi added: “We don’t feel unstoppable, but we are in good momentum and confident. We must continue with this momentum.” On his and the team’s growth On the importance of keeping clean sheets and the team’s improvement in defence, Cubarsi noted: “Keeping a clean sheet is a challenge, especially in stadiums like this, and we need to improve in that area. We’re going to do it, because we have room for improvement.” Cubarsi also spoke about the growth he has experienced over the past year and how he has evolved, saying: “Maybe I’ve grown a bit; this summer has been a turning point in my career. I’ve always been confident, since I was young, but opponents might respect me more, but what they really want is to hurt me, and I have to be careful.” Set to start tomorrow. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) Earlier today, reports emerged stating that Flick was testing Frenkie de Jong as a centre-back . On being asked about the Dutchman playing in that position, Cubarsi highlighted that his teammate was one of the best in his natural role in midfield. “He has a spectacular level, but in his position he is one of the best in the world and he will perform at his best in that role; he will be very important for the squad.” Regarding Lamine Yamal’s claim for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, Cubarsi backed his teammate, stating that the teenage winger was the best player in the world. “Everyone knows Lamine is the best in the world. He knows it, everyone else knows it, and I could be there too, because of the World Cup I’ve had, but I’m taking it easy and he’s more of a media figure.” Cubarsi was also asked about the noise surrounding the refereeing in Spain following continued complaints from Real Madrid. In response, he said: “I don’t focus on that issue, but on what I can do something about, which is my club, what we can give to our people.” Source: Mundo Deportivo