Pau Cubarsí experienced a difficult day in defense during the match against Levante. Barça conceded two goals in the first half, and the left side was left unprotected without the usual coverage from Íñigo Martínez. In addition, the young defender noticed that the resilient profile his teammate provided was no longer there to complement his style.
Levante took advantage of the spaces on the left, especially due to the offensive runs by the full-back that Cubarsí left behind. The absence of Íñigo Martínez became evident from the first minute of the match. That gap in the defensive line allowed the opponents to create constant danger.
Duels that didn't go well: Pau Cubarsí in trouble
Iván Romero found himself alone in the 15th minute after an excellent counterattack by Levante. He dribbled past Cubarsí with ease and finished skillfully in front of the Barça goalkeeper. The center-back won only one out of four ground duels and was beaten on several occasions.
Despite these problems, he kept a high passing accuracy: he completed 84 out of 92 passes (92%). He also replied well in the air, with four clearances and three recoveries. This shows that his technical ability remains intact, but it's not enough to make up for tactical imbalances.
The defensive pair needs more time together
The partnership between Ronald Araujo and Cubarsí isn't fully tuned yet. Araujo has shown security in the first matches, but the defensive connection with Cubarsí requires more time and composure. It seems that the young center-back feels more comfortable playing on the right, while the left side makes him uncertain.
Pau Cubarsí could have summed up his frustration with a phrase like "I don't perform on the left." Previously, he played as the right center-back while Íñigo took the left. Now, with Araujo on the right, Cubarsí finds himself shifted to a side where he feels less comfortable.
The defensive reorganization, without the veteran support of Íñigo, has unbalanced Barça on that flank. This situation has exposed the need to have a left-footed or shifted player in that area to provide solidity and experience. The fragility became visible and affected the team for much of the match.
Tactical limitations and the urgency to sign
Hansi Flick's offensive approach exposes any defensive mistake, as seen in the match against Levante. A minimal error in stepping up or transitioning can be lethal when the lines are pushed forward. Pau Cubarsí experienced this firsthand.
This makes it clear that Barça need to strengthen the left side of the backline. A signing with experience and good positioning would help balance the defense. In addition, it would free Pau Cubarsí from the excessive pressure he currently has to bear.