Barcelona boss Hansi Flick sets Pau Cubarsi position preference

Hansi Flick has told Pau Cubarsi that the Barcelona defender will only be used as a left-sided centre-back in extreme circumstances.

According to Catalunya Radio, Barcelona’s coaching staff have discussed the issue with the Spain defender and concluded that his preferred position should remain on the right side of central defence.

The decision is based partly on how Barcelona build attacks. When Cubarsi operates on the left, he is not considered to be in the best position to play passes that break through the opposition’s lines, reducing one of the team’s advantages when bringing the ball out from the back.

There is also a defensive reason behind the decision. Cubarsi is particularly effective in ground challenges and is more precise when using his right foot to slide in and win the ball. That benefit is less apparent when he plays on the opposite side because he is right-footed rather than left-footed.

The 19-year-old has made five appearances for Barcelona this season, including four in La Liga and one in the UEFA Champions League.