Cubarsi backs Barcelona style and Flick’s project after Copa del Rey exit: ‘We have confidence in our coach’

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has issued a defiant endorsement of the club’s playing philosophy and head coach Hansi Flick’s long-term vision, insisting the squad remains united despite their dramatic Copa del Rey elimination at the hands of Atlético Madrid.

The 17-year-old centre-back, fresh from a commanding display in Wednesday’s 3-0 second-leg victory, told reporters that the performance at Camp Nou reinforced the players’ belief in the tactical blueprint that has carried them to the summit of La Liga and into the Champions League knockout rounds.

“We played a spectacular game,” Cubarsi said. “We came close to reaching the Cup final, but I think both the team and the fans have confidence in our style of play. This will also give us more strength for what is to come.”

Barcelona entered the return leg trailing 4-0 from the first encounter at the Metropolitano and fell one goal short of forcing extra time. Cubarsi, whose first-leg strike was controversially ruled out, refused to dwell on refereeing decisions, instead urging focus on internal improvement.

“Maybe that goal would have helped us. We’re not quite sure what happened, but if that’s how it was refereed, then it must be correct. Perhaps we shouldn’t focus so much on the refereeing, but rather on what we could have done better ourselves.”

The teenager highlighted the defensive control exhibited against Diego Simeone’s side, noting that Atlético rarely threatened Marc-André ter Stegen’s goal. “We’ve always been very clear about our style of play. We have a lot of confidence in the coach and the staff. Atletico didn’t create many chances either, so this also gives us a lot more energy and confidence to continue believing in what we do. We’re going to keep going like this.”

With a four-point cushion over Real Madrid in the league and European ambitions still alive, Cubarsi believes destiny lies in Barcelona’s own hands. “We must focus on ourselves first because La Liga depends on us, so if we win as many games as possible, we will surely take it. This cushion we have over Madrid could work in our favour, but first we have to focus on ourselves.”

Asked about the prospect of lifting the Champions League trophy, the La Masia graduate did not hide his ambition. “As a Barça fan, winning a title, whether it’s La Liga, the Copa del Rey or the Supercopa, is impressive, but winning the Champions League would be a spectacular dream. We’ll fight for it and try to achieve it.”

Barcelona now turn their attention back to domestic and European duties, buoyed by a second-leg display that, while insufficient for cup progression, has strengthened internal resolve in Flick’s evolving project.