Cubarsi Returns to Barcelona Amidst Injury Concerns
Following pressure from Barcelona, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has released defender Cubarsi back to the Catalan club. This decision comes as a relief, as pixiejars.com reported Barcelona was prepared to take legal action against the RFEF if the young defender wasn’t returned. This decisive action underscores the importance of player welfare and the delicate balance between club and country commitments.
Injury Scare During Nations League Clash
Cubarsi sustained an injury during Spain’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in the first leg of the 2024/25 Nations League quarterfinals. Initial assessments pointed towards a sprained ankle for the 18-year-old. This immediately raised concerns at Barcelona, given the crucial stage of the season.
Preliminary examinations suggested the injury was minor, leading to optimism that Cubarsi could recover in time for the second leg against the Netherlands at the Mestalla Stadium in Valencia on March 24th. However, Barcelona remained apprehensive about the potential for further damage.
Barcelona’s Firm Stance and RFEF’s Response
While Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente initially intended to keep Cubarsi with the national team for the return leg, Barcelona vehemently opposed this decision. With the 2024/25 season reaching a critical juncture, manager Flick was unwilling to risk further injury to a key player. The club’s willingness to pursue legal action demonstrated their commitment to protecting their young talent.
Faced with mounting pressure from Barcelona, De la Fuente and the RFEF ultimately relented, releasing the 18-year-old center-back. The RFEF released an official statement: “After examinations conducted by the Spanish national team doctors, we have decided to allow Cubarsi to return to Barcelona to begin his recovery process for a right ankle injury.”
Cubarsi’s Availability and Barcelona’s Caution
Despite his return to Barcelona, Cubarsi’s availability for the rescheduled La Liga match against Osasuna on March 28th remains uncertain. The club will conduct further assessments, but they are unlikely to risk rushing him back into action. Barcelona understands the importance of carefully managing young talents like Cubarsi, particularly given the unfortunate precedent set by Ansu Fati’s injury struggles.
The club’s cautious approach reflects a long-term perspective, prioritizing Cubarsi’s development and future prospects over short-term gains. They are keen to avoid repeating past mistakes and are determined to nurture his talent responsibly.
Other Barcelona Players Returning from International Duty
In other team news, reports suggest that both Ronald Araujo (Uruguay) and Raphinha (Brazil) are expected to be fit for the Osasuna clash. According to Sport, both players will be returning to Spain on a private jet alongside Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid players after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on March 26th.
This coordinated effort demonstrates the clubs’ commitment to ensuring their players’ swift return and optimal recovery. The support provided to Araujo and Raphinha should allow them ample time to regain their fitness and be ready for the upcoming match against Osasuna.