Barcelona have expressed frustration following the unexpected call-up of center-back Pau Cubarsí to the Spanish national team, highlighting the inconsistency in the decision. The 21-year-old was selected by Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente as an injury replacement for Pau Torres for the upcoming Nations League matches against Denmark and Switzerland.
An injury Cubarsí sustained during Barcelona’s Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade initially kept him out of the national squad. He required stitches after a kick to the face and wore a protective mask during Barcelona’s weekend match against Real Sociedad. De la Fuente had previously stated that he would not take any risks with players recovering from injury, mentioning that “we always take care of our players.” However, the coach reversed his decision and called up Cubarsí less than a week later.
Barcelona’s official website seemed to subtly criticize the decision, especially since the Nations League games have little significance. In the final paragraph of their announcement, the club pointed out, “These two games will have little bearing on the future of Luis de la Fuente’s side during this Nations League group stage because Spain have already mathematically qualified for the next round and quarterfinals.” This pointed remark suggests that the games hold no real competitive value, questioning why they now call up Cubarsí, who they previously deemed unfit to play.
While Cubarsí has proven he is capable of playing through injury, as seen in his appearance against Real Sociedad with a mask, Barcelona’s concerns stem from the fact that Spain’s upcoming fixtures are inconsequential in terms of qualification. With Spain already assured of their place in the next round, the risk of re-injuring key players, including Cubarsí, seems unnecessary.
Barcelona’s skepticism also comes from a painful memory of a similar situation that occurred last November. In a friendly match with little at stake, midfielder Gavi suffered a serious knee injury while playing for Spain, which sidelined him for 11 months. The incident caused friction between the club and the national team, and Barcelona will be hoping history doesn’t repeat itself with Cubarsí.
With Spain’s qualification already secure, Barcelona’s stance is clear: protecting their players from unnecessary risks should take precedence over non-essential international fixtures. The tension between the two parties continues to simmer, with hopes that a similar injury scare does not occur again.
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