A major crisis has erupted between Barcelona and the Spanish Football Federation over Pau Cubarsi, after he sustained an injury during La Roja’s match against the Netherlands in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals.
Cubarsi’s injury was diagnosed as a mild sprain in his right ankle, and the Spanish Football Federation is determined to have the 18-year-old with Luis de la Fuente’s squad at Mestalla for the second leg.
Barcelona sent an official request to the Spanish Football Federation asking for Cubarsi to be excused from the trip and returned to Catalonia for treatment, fearing that the sprain could worsen and result in a prolonged absence.
Despite the injury, Spanish Football Federation officials believe Cubarsi can play against the Netherlands or remain on the bench, and they are firmly against the idea of sending him back to Barcelona, which has sparked a major dispute between the two parties in recent hours.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had previously confirmed that he did not intend to risk Cubarsi, which further angered Barcelona officials. Even if the player remained in the camp, he would not participate in the second leg. Therefore, the best option for everyone was for him to return to the club and receive treatment and rest.
Barcelona fears losing Cubarsi in the match against Osasuna next Thursday, especially since Inigo Martinez is injured, Ronald Araujo will not be available due to the long journey from Uruguay to Spain, and only one other central defender, Eric Garcia, is available.
