Is Alvarez good fit for Barca? Cubarsi says "we welcome anyone, but we're strong even without them"

Before the final group stage match against Uruguay, Cubarsi gave an exclusive interview to "Sport", discussing his thoughts on Spain's performance in the FIFA World Cup.

You've arrived at the FIFA World Cup in great form. How do you explain Spain's defensive solidity?

We defended very well. In the first match, our attacking play wasn't fluid enough. It improved in the second game; we played with more aggression and intensity, which showed on the pitch, and we got a good result.

Is the team more determined now?

Yes, as I said before the match, we must play with more determination and intensity. We know the first few games are always harder because you need to adapt, and the situation is more complex, but we must raise our performance level in the upcoming matches.

How do you feel in this FIFA World Cup?

I feel like I'm adapting very quickly and comfortably, and I'm in great shape.

What's the secret to being so well-prepared physically and mentally?

I think it's both. Physically, training with new teammates is an experience I haven't had before, but I'll gradually get to know them. Mentally, I'm very calm, not nervous. I know I'm playing in the FIFA World Cup, and I have to perform well.

You're only 19, yet you seem so composed—it's remarkable.

These matches are very demanding, whether it's the FIFA World Cup, a friendly, or any game. You have to stay focused for the full 90 minutes.

How is your chemistry with Laporte?

Very good. We are partners now, and I feel very comfortable playing with him. Perhaps he has more experience, but we help each other on the pitch.

Are we seeing the best Cubarsi right now?

I always want to improve every day, whether my form is good or bad. I just want to help the team and win with everyone.

People keep talking about you being European champions. Is that ambition still there?

Of course. This national team has performed exceptionally well in recent years and knows each other well. Our goal is the FIFA World Cup, because for players, it's the highest honor. We will strive to win the tournament.

Will you use the match against Saudi Arabia as a reference?

As long as we maintain our passing and intensity, everything will be better. The most important thing is to give our all.

Was the team shaken after the match against Cape Verde?

We know that's how football is. It requires a lot of possession and chances, but if the ball just doesn't go in, you can't win. However, that's still the path we need to take.

This is a young team, but very experienced and battle-hardened. It won't be easily defeated, right?

We combine experience and youth. For us, this combination is crucial.

Will defending against Alvarez be difficult for you?

I've played against him many times. I know how he plays. He's very decisive. Yes, he's difficult to defend against, and I have to stay focused.

Would he be a suitable signing for Barcelona?

Right now, I'm more focused on the fact that we already have Ferran and Gundogan, who is a new signing. In the end, whoever comes will be welcomed, and if no one comes, I'll fight to the end with my current teammates. We have a very strong team.

Would it be a dream if Messi were the opponent in the final?

That would be a dream, especially because it means I've reached the FIFA World Cup final, which would be a chance to compete for the title. If the opponent truly is Messi, that would indeed be a childhood dream for me.

Is Messi your idol?

Yes, our whole family are Barcelona fans. I've always considered him an idol and a role model since I was little, and I'm really looking forward to meeting him.

Even with Messi as an opponent, do you still believe you can win?

That's our very clear goal, and we will fight for it.

The confidence you exude is indeed very important for competing in the FIFA World Cup.

We are very calm now and preparing for the match against Uruguay. We have recovered well physically.

Is finishing first in the group more important than it seems?

Yes, you always have to try to win every game and aim for first place in the group. If you play well in the group stage, the road ahead will be easier.

What do you think of the Uruguay team?

We know that Uruguay will give their all; they are very determined. Araujo and I are club teammates, so I know what he's like. We must play our own football, be ourselves, maintain good passing, and keep possession of the ball.

Have you and Araujo had any "rivalry" these past few days?

We talked when the groups were drawn, both wanting to win against each other, but we haven't been in much contact recently. We'll see each other soon enough.

Did you help him a lot so he could participate in the FIFA World Cup despite his injury?

In the national team, we are like a family, and it's the same at Barcelona. We help each other. We are all happy that Araujo can participate in the FIFA World Cup.

Let me ask one more thing about Barcelona: you mentioned earlier that you liked Gundogan's arrival. Could you explain?

Yes, we played against him in the Champions League. I don't watch him daily in the Premier League, but he's a player with high intensity, runs a lot, and is willing to sacrifice for the team, which is very important.

Finally, you still have another excellent season ahead with Flick.

I'm currently focused on the FIFA World Cup; anything after that will be dealt with later. We've had two very excellent seasons with Flick, and we won't hit the brakes; we'll only accelerate.

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