Barcelona MOTM sends a strong message after Brest win – ‘We are back to 100%’ | OneFootball

A Robert Lewandowski brace, Dani Olmo’s golazo, Pedri-Marc Casado’s midfield masterclass and Raphinha marathon helped Barcelona to a 3-0 win over Brest last night in the UEFA Champions League.

Yet, it was the team’s young defender Pau Cubarsi who was named the man-of-the-match, and rightly so, for it often goes under the radar how impressive and calm he is at the back at just 17 years of age.

Starting for the Catalans once again last night, the Spanish teenager was rock-solid in defence with well-time challenges and completed 96% of his 115 passes.

Cubarsi’s interview

Speaking to the media after his man-of-the-match performance, the Barcelona defender commented on the team’s form, his individual performance and his teammates. He began by detailing the game against Brest, saying,

“Today was a complicated match because we came from a bad spell. People always try to criticize when there are bad matches, but that’s normal.”

When asked if he was ever tensed on the field, especially playing in big games, the youngster said, “No. I am a calm young man on and off the field.”

Pau Cubarsi was named the Man of the Match against Brest. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Praise for Gerard Martin

Cubarsi then extended his support to Gerard Martin who was shown slack after his performance against Celta Vigo and praised him for his display last night.

“Yes, people always try to criticize when they see you have a bad game, but a bad game happens to anyone. We have to be with him and support him because he is a great player, and that is what we saw today.”

The teenage sensation then revealed that he did not expect to be named man-of-the-match and named two of his teammates who equally deserved the award.

“The truth is that I didn’t expect the best player award, anyone could have won it. Pedri and Robert were also good. I won it so I will be very grateful.”

Cubarsi was also asked to comment on the team’s performance last night and he did not hesitate in declaring that they were back to their best after a small hiccup. “We are back to 100% and we have to continue like this from now on.”

Finally, the player gave his two cents on Hansi Flick and his management of the dressing room. “Flick is a great coach and he helps us. He is learning Spanish now.”

Source: Barça One