Pau Cubarsi proud to help parents retire after Spain’s World Cup triumph

Pau Cubarsi says helping his father retire is one of the achievements he is most proud of, and believes the sacrifices made by both his parents helped him reach the highest level of football.

The Spain and Barcelona defender is preparing to face England on Sunday evening in the sixth and final round of matches in Group C of the Nations League – League A.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Cubarsi said his father was no longer working in the family business, allowing him to attend matches and enjoy life.

“My father no longer works in the family business, so he can now come to my matches and enjoy life,” Cubarsi said. “To have contributed, as a son, to his retirement fills me with pride.”

He added: “We can enjoy this life together because if I am where I am now, it is because of the sacrifices they made for me.”

Spain go into the meeting with England at the top of Group C on 15 points after five wins from five matches. England are second on 12 points.

Cubarsi has faced England captain Harry Kane twice and expects another demanding contest against the Bayern Munich striker.

“I have played against him twice and it is extremely difficult to mark him,” he said. “He is a very intelligent player, as everyone can see, but he is also big and physically strong, and he uses his body very well.”

Asked about his favourite England players, Cubarsi replied: “I think Kane is my favourite English player, and Anthony Gordon as well, of course.”

The 2026 World Cup’s best young player also identified former Barcelona and Spain defenders Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique as his footballing role models.

“Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique are my idols,” he said. “I like both types of defender: the fighter and the one with good technical ability.”

Cubarsi believes the pair offered contrasting qualities during their careers.

“Pique played a greater role in building up play, but Puyol was essential in terms of mentality and character,” he said.

Cubarsi said he was surprised to receive the award for the best young player at the 2026 World Cup, although he had recognised that he was in contention after helping Spain reach the final.

“I was surprised,” he said. “I knew I had a chance of winning it because not many young players reach a World Cup final, but my only aim was to give my best and help Spain win the trophy.”

Spain won the 2026 World Cup after beating Argentina 1-0 in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal.