After Cubarsí, which other Barça Atlètic centre-backs could make it to the first team?

The Blaugrana defence has a solid base to build on, but there is a certain amount of scepticism surrounding it for the future. The centre of the defence is made up of five first team players: Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric García and Iñigo Martínez. However, rumours about possible departures are looming over many of those mentioned, so another centre-back who came through the club's youth ranks could be promoted, as happened with the current number 2.

Of the five players named who occupy the positions in the centre of the rearguard, only Pau Cubarsí seems to have his continuity assured. The latest information pointed towards the Ronald Araujo saga ending in an extension of his contract, but nothing has been finalised yet. Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen and Eric García are two players who are very likely to leave the club. In fact, the player from Martorell could do so this January for Girona. Finally, Iñigo Martínez is 33 years old, so he is not a long-term option either.

Sergi Domínguez and Andrés Cuenca, two familiar faces

The first two names that might come to mind for Barça fans when thinking of centre-backs for La Masía are Sergi Domínguez (19 years old) and Andrés Cuenca (17 years old). Both have already made their debut with the first team. In addition, the former has been an extra man for Hansi Flick all season, participating in training and travelling to sporting events. Domínguez is a right-footed, tall (1.91 metres), fast, strong and very good ball-disposal centre-back that Hansi Flick likes. In addition, he has already played 235 minutes spread over 6 matches with the seniors.

For his part, Cuenca is also a profile that the first team staff has under control. He is shorter than the previously named, although he is of good height for the position (1.81 metres), and he can still grow more. His most significant trait is the quality he has in his boots and his refined technique when bringing the ball out. However, although he is in the process of improving it, he is not very forceful in actions that require it. Also, as an emergency situation in the reserve team, he has played several games out of position, located at left back.

Álvaro Cortés and Alexis Olmedo, a great duo

Olmedo is a 19-year-old right-footed central defender who has become a vitally important player for the Blaugrana reserve team. He already had minutes with Rafa Márquez in his last season in charge of Barça Atlètic, normally as a right back, in the style of Jules Koundé. He is a good player with the ball at his feet, although he is not as fine as, for example, Pau Cubarsí. He is not the most powerful either, but he is a sure thing. Always correct in defence and attack, in addition to having very good dribbling skills with which he can break lines.

On the other hand, Álvaro Cortés is a very tall and strong centre-back. He doesn't stand out for his speed, but he does stand out for his strength. In addition, he has a good way of getting the ball out and is left-footed, a profile that is scarce and always comes in handy. He is 19 years old and it still seems that the first team is a bit far away for him, as this is his first season in the reserve team and he is not an undisputed starter. He is a profile that should be kept an eye on, although perhaps he lacks preparation.

Mbacke, a new Faye case?

Mamadou Mbacke (22 years old, right-footed) arrived at Barça Atlètic on loan in the 2023/2024 season from Los Angeles FC. Together with Mikayil Faye, they formed an enviable defensive duo. The two Senegalese centre-backs complemented each other very well, as the one from the United States, with his 1.87 metres of height, was imposing from above and calm in defensive actions. His teammate, sold this summer to Rennes for 10 million euros, was more powerful and passionate, which caused him to disconnect from the ball in some ways, although he was better at bringing it out.

At the end of the season, Mbacke returned temporarily to his club of origin, as FC Barcelona ended up paying 2 million euros to have him permanently in their ranks. He suffered a serious injury to his right ankle in April and did not return until October. After his recovery, he has regained his place in the reserve team and is a very important player for Albert Sánchez, so Hansi Flick is sure to have him under control.