The injury to Jules Kounde in the match against Granada was a big blow for FC Barcelona. With the Frenchman’s injury, Xavi now has six key players of his squad currently unavailable.
With so many of his starters unavailable and an already thin squad to begin with, Xavi will have to look for alternatives from the youth side. Luckily, Barcelona have some of the best youth team players in their ranks, and Xavi can count upon them to bolster the team, which is getting thinner due to injuries.
Pau Cubarsi; the young defensive leader
According to SPORT, the injury to Kounde can give two particular Barcelona youngsters the opportunity to train and travel with the first team, and, if the opportunity arises, even get some minutes on the pitch. Xavi will be monitoring these two youth players with particular interest while his team goes through the international break.
The first of these players is Pau Cubarsi, who, at only sixteen years of age, has already surprised Rafa Marquez with his leadership qualities and character. On the pitch, Cubarsi has stood out because of his ball distribution and impeccable positioning on the pitch. He is also good in the air and has already developed multiple aspects of his game at a very young age.
Mikayil Faye; the defensive powerhouse
On the other hand, the 19-year-old Senegalese, Mikayil Faye has also been making the headlines recently because of his performances with Barcelona Athletic. He has made himself known in his new team, particularly because of his speed and the ability to cut out rival attackers.
Faye is not as assimilated into the Barcelona style of play and not as positional as Cubarsi, but has still stood out with his tackling and aerial abilities.
While these defenders are the favorites to be called up by Xavi in Kounde’s absence, Cubarsi can also have to leave the club temporarily as the U-17 World Cup is starting on November 10th in Indonesia. His call-up thus can come at a difficult time for Barcelona, and thus be a headache not only for Rafa Marquez, but also for Xavi.
