New Delhi: FC Barcelona’s season won’t be remembered just for the attacking brilliance but it is also important not to overlook the defenders who have been the unsung heroes throughout the season and have made it possible. Their recent 3-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final was the recent highlight of what the backline holds.
Pau Cubarsi has put in a masterclass at the back that has made a huge difference over the season. He has put in a masterclass at the back that has made a huge difference, performing in every high-pressure match. At just 18, Cubarsi showed a level of focus and awareness far beyond his age. Throughout the season, he has been great with the reading game, reading every move and reacting quickly to stop the opponent’s dangerous attacks. He has been consistent with his form being flawless for the entire 120 minutes.
Pau Cubarsí vs Real Madrid .
he once again showcased why he is destined to become a historic defender . pic.twitter.com/mAPUZJaWso— حمودي 🇮🇶² . (@Lhmdmd_70) April 27, 2025
Alongside him, Andreas Christensen has also played a huge role, even adjusting his position when needed. In recent months, he has slotted into a defensive midfield role, helping Barcelona control games and providing an extra layer of protection ahead of the back four. His experience has been vital, especially with the midfield often stretched due to injuries to key players like Pedri and Gavi.
Jules Kounde, who at times faced criticism earlier in the season, has stepped up massively. His performances at right-back have been crucial during tough Champions League nights and close La Liga battles. Kounde’s defensive awareness and improved consistency have helped Barca grind out results, and even in the recent Cops del Rey final, his 116th-minute goal against Real Madrid helped Barcelona clinch the 32nd Cop del Rey. He became the fourth Barca player to do so.
GOAAAAAAL, JULES KOUNDE WINS IT FOR BARCELONA!!! REAL MADRID WITH HORRIBLE DEFENDING!!! pic.twitter.com/5U1hRObK64
— Mystershirt 👕📦 (@Mystershirt) April 26, 2025
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has once again underlined his importance. After recovering from his back surgery mid-season, his return brought a renewed calmness to Barcelona’s backline. His crucial saves against Napoli and his command during narrow league wins have kept their quadruple bid alive.
Looking ahead
As Barcelona chase glory in La Liga and the Champions League — having already secured the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey it’s clear that their defenders are the unsung backbone of this campaign. Without the mature displays from Cubarsi, the leadership of Araujo, Christensen’s versatility, Kounde’s resilience, and Ter Stegen’s brilliance, the dream of a historic quadruple would have slipped away long ago.
While the headlines often go to the attacking stars, those who have watched closely know- Barcelona’s season has been built at the back. As the season heads towards its climax, the defence stands as the pillars of a dream few dared to believe possible at the start of the campaign.
Discover the unsung heroes tirelessly working behind the scenes, crucial to keeping Barcelona’s ambitious quadruple hopes alive this season. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
