Barcelona continued their perfect start to the La Liga campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Raphinha and Fermín López provided the goals, but the clean sheet and Barcelona’s overall control of the match were equally encouraging for Hansi Flick.
After the final whistle, Pau Cubarsí and Joan García highlighted several reasons why they believe this Barcelona team can reach another level this season.
Cubarsí Praises Barcelona’s Defensive Display
Cubarsí was particularly pleased with Barcelona’s performance without the ball.
The young centre-back felt Barça established control from the opening stages and rarely allowed Athletic Club to dictate the game.
“It was a very solid match, with a clear game plan, a desire to dominate and a good tempo.”
Barcelona have now kept clean sheets in their opening two league matches, giving the defence an early confidence boost.
Cubarsí also highlighted the quality behind him, praising Joan García while expressing his belief in the defensive unit.
“We have the best goalkeeper in the world, and the defence is full of confidence.”
Cubarsí Excited by Espart’s Rapid Rise
One of the biggest positives from the opening games has been the emergence of Xavi Espart.
The La Masia graduate started at left-back for the second consecutive match and once again demonstrated his ability to operate comfortably in different areas of the pitch.
Cubarsí, who grew up alongside Espart in Barcelona’s academy, knows exactly what the youngster can offer.
“He’s spectacular on the ball, he can play at full-back and in midfield, and he always does it perfectly.”
The defender also compared Espart’s journey with that of other academy graduates such as Marc Bernal and Lamine Yamal.
“Rodri Will Take Us to Another Level”
Barcelona’s newest midfield addition also received a glowing endorsement from Cubarsí.
After making his competitive debut against Athletic, Rodri is expected to become an important part of Flick’s plans once he reaches full fitness.
Cubarsí believes his experience, leadership and quality could have a major influence on the squad.
“He’ll help us reach another level; he’ll be a leader within the team.”
The centre-back also singled out Raphinha following another energetic display from the Brazilian winger.
“He’s playing at a spectacular level and is raring to go; we have a very well-rounded squad.”
Joan García Enjoys a Quiet Night
Joan García could hardly have asked for a better evening.
Before kick-off, the goalkeeper was recognised for being named the best goalkeeper in the previous La Liga season. He then followed that achievement with another clean sheet.
The former Espanyol star joked that he would happily accept more matches in which he barely has to make a save.
“I’d sign up for every match where nobody shoots at me.”
While Athletic managed to create some opportunities, García was largely protected by a disciplined Barcelona defence.
García Praises the Entire Defensive Unit
García also reflected on Unai Simón being named Player of the Match.
Rather than being disappointed that the award went to the Athletic goalkeeper, García saw it as evidence of Barcelona’s attacking dominance.
“Unai was the best; that means we attacked well and created chances.”
The Barça goalkeeper admitted his team could have been more clinical but was especially pleased with their defensive performance.
He also acknowledged the difficulty of Barcelona’s high-risk system, which demands concentration from the defenders throughout the match.
Youthful Barcelona Have “Loads of Energy”
García believes Barcelona’s younger squad could become one of their biggest strengths this season.
The 25-year-old considers himself one of the more experienced members of the group and says he is trying to help the emerging academy players whenever possible.
“Xavi Espart is incredible – yet another player coming through [from the academy].”
According to García, the current squad possesses a different energy compared with last season, with young players bringing hunger and intensity to the team.
“We’ve got loads of energy, and we’re really keen to produce some great football with lots of home-grown players.”
Barcelona Know the Hard Work Has Just Started
Despite the encouraging beginning, García was quick to insist that Barcelona cannot become complacent.
The squad may be balanced, talented and full of youthful energy, but maintaining that level throughout an entire season will require constant effort.
“If we don’t push ourselves, we won’t succeed. We’re on the right track, but we’ve only just begun.”
With two wins, two clean sheets and several academy talents making their mark, Barcelona have plenty of reasons to be optimistic — but Flick’s side know the real test will be maintaining this momentum as the season intensifies.