Barcelona defensive prodigy had the chance to leave the club in 2023 | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have secured the long-term future of one of its most exciting young talents, as Pau Cubarsi extended his contract until 2029 this week.

The renewal of the 18-year-old defender marks another significant step in the club’s commitment to nurturing La Masia graduates and securing their future in the years to come.

In fact, the club, in the recent past, have announced several contract renewals including the likes of Gavi, Pedri and Ronald Araujo, among others.

Cubarsi had the chance to leave in 2023

However, Cubarsi’s current status could have turned out very differently had it not been for his desire to succeed at Barcelona.

Indeed, a recent report from Mundo Deportivo has revealed that just a year and a half ago, there was a moment when Cubarsi’s future at Barça was far from certain.

In the summer of 2023, big European clubs were closely monitoring the talented centre-back, hoping to lure him away from Catalonia.

Cubarsi could have left Barcelona in 2023 (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

At just 16, Cubarsi was at a critical stage of his development, transitioning from cadet to youth football – a period when La Masia players often attract interest from abroad.

Cubarsi wanted to continue at Barcelona

Despite the offers and interest from other clubs, Cubarsi and his family never wavered in their decision. Their priority was clear: to succeed at Barcelona.

On July 8, 2023, the young defender signed his first professional contract with the club, effectively shutting down any potential exit rumours.

Shortly after, he joined the first team for pre-season and in a few months, he made his professional debut for Barça, under the leadership of Xavi Hernandez.

The rest, as they say, is history, with Cubarsi now being regarded as one of the best defensive talents in world football.