Spain’s announcement of their Euro 2024 squad entailed a mixed bag of surprises.
In addition to stars like Aleix Garcia and Marcos Llorente being left out, Pau Cubarsi was also strangely denied the opportunity to represent his national colours on one of the biggest international stages.
Call-ups for Fermin Lopez, Ferran Torres, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal mean Barça’s representation remains strong.
However, the absence of one of their breakthrough stars from the tournament will have notable consequences, predominantly negative but with some positives.
1. History will not repeat itself
The perplexing case of Pedri in 2021 continues to raise eyebrows to this day.
After a successful season with Barça in which he was a nailed starter, Pedri went on to play in the Euros as well as the Olympics.
Unsurprisingly, being used like a bar of soap took a massive toll on the teenager’s physicality, with injuries following in quick succession.
Indeed, since the 2020/21 season, when Pedri played over 5,000 minutes across 72 games, he has suffered 9 injuries and missed 71 games. Before summer 2021, he had never been injured.
As such, Cubarsi’s exclusion may disappoint fans eager to see him in the Euros, but they can take solace in knowing that he will be well-rested and more likely to steer clear of injuries.
Cubarsi will not tread the same path as Pedri in 2021. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Considering the 17-year-old sensation had already played the majority of Barça’s games in 2024, the risk of injury was already looming large and thus this brief window of rest comes at an immensely opportune time.
2. Less experience on the big stage
Just as diamonds form under pressure, players build character when the lights shine brightest.
An international knockout tournament, especially one as prestigious as the Euros, is a true test of nerves and mettle. At the tender age of 17, Cubarsi continues to carry himself like an absolute veteran.
But his only experience…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/what-does-pau-cubarsis-euro-2024-absence-mean-for-barcelona/
Author : Shahraiz Sajjad
Publish date : 2024-06-14 06:57:57
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