Ronald Araujo compares Pau Cubarsi to Barcelona legend

Ronald Araujo has compared young defensive partner Pau Cubarsi to Barcelona legend Gerard Pique after impressing since breaking into the first-team.

Cubarsi made his Barca debut just a few days before his 17th birthday in mid-January, featuring in the second half of La Blaugrana's 3-1 win over Unionistas de Salamanca in the Copa del Rey. Since then, the youngster has become a regular alongside Araujo at the heart of Xavi Hernandez's defence, making five La Liga starts.

The now-17-year-old has thoroughly impressed since bursting on to the scene, with pundits and fans comparing the defender to some of the greats of the game already.

Defensive partner Araujo has also been keen to compare Cubarsi with a Barca legend, admitting to the press that the La Masia graduate reminds him of Gerard Pique.

"I learned a lot from Pique, especially his intelligence. Geri was not fast, but he was very smart, he was always in the right position," said Araujo.

"Technically, he always offered a solution. He reminds me a little bit of Pau Cubarsi, because he has something of him, he’s very smart. The truth is that he has unbelievable talent at just 17 years old. The truth is that I think he should be taken care of, because he is a talent at the club for many years to come.

"The young players at the club, although they are young, are ready to play. Previously, Xavi and these players began to appear gradually, but football is different now.

"Young people now have great energy. They are not afraid and endure. In training, if you collide with them, they get up and continue. Economically, the club is going through a difficult situation, but thanks to God, the young players provide great help."

Cubarsi, who was linked with Chelsea before his debut, is likely to line up alongside Araujo once again in midweek when Barcelona face off against SSC Napoli in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie.

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