Image: Barcelona ace trains in protective mask as he pushes to play against Real Sociedad

Pau Cubarsi participated in the final training session before FC Barcelona face Real Sociedad on Sunday wearing a protective mask. 

Hansi Flick’s squad trained in preparation for the match before travelling to Anoeta, with the young centre-back, hailing from Estanyol, attracting significant attention. 

His return has been highly anticipated, especially given that he will be sporting a face mask after sustaining a facial injury in the recent Champions League match against Crvena Zvezda.

Despite not being called up for the Spanish national team, Cubarsi has remained committed to being available for Barcelona’s next game. 

He has consistently communicated his desire to play, making it clear to his teammates, Flick, and the medical staff that he is eager to join the squad in San Sebastian. However, playing this soon presents challenges. 

Flick will have the final say

💪 Pau Cubarsí is training today with a protective mask. pic.twitter.com/iSDLRov06j

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 9, 2024

On Friday, Cubarsi underwent evaluations with medical experts, testing his readiness during training by wearing a protective mask. Despite this, Barcelona’s medical staff remains cautious about his inclusion, concerned about his condition.

The final decision will rest with Hansi Flick, who, along with Cubarsi, intends to wait until the last possible moment to assess whether playing is feasible. 

The top priority is, without a doubt, Cubarsi’s well-being. The issue is that the injury is severe, with recent stitches making his face vulnerable. Besides the risk of taking a hit during gameplay, there’s also the concern that his own sweat could affect the healing wound.

Initially, the impact from Spajic’s boot had led medical staff to believe Cubarsi should skip the Real Sociedad game entirely. However, from the very start, Cubarsi has been determined not to miss any game time. 

His strong desire to play has prompted Barcelona’s team to delay a final decision until closer to kickoff, keeping all options open while prioritising his recovery.