Fans convinced Barcelona have produced the ‘next Beckenbauer’ after history-making performance against PSG

Supporters are convinced Barcelona have unearthed a blend reminiscent of Franz Beckenbauer and Franco Baresi after their significant triumph over Paris Saint-Germain.

Barca will carry a one-goal lead into the second leg next week after securing a 3-2 win on Wednesday. The decisive goal came from second-half substitute Andreas Christensen, who found the net with a header following Raphinha’s two goals.

Ousmane Dembele found the net against his former club, while Vitinha also scored for PSG. Despite their efforts, Kylian Mbappe failed to register a goal, largely due to the commanding performance of La Masia graduate Pau Cubarsi.

Cubarsi, who made his Champions League debut in the previous round against Napoli, was selected by manager Xavi from the outset.

The 17-year-old justified his inclusion with an impressive display, effectively neutralizing Mbappe’s threat and executing a remarkable tackle on the PSG forward during the first half.

Cubarsi’s inclusion in the starting lineup for the crucial clash marked a historic moment, as he became the youngest defender in Champions League history to start a quarter-final match.

His composed and mature performance on the field earned him widespread acclaim from fans on social media, who lauded his talent and contribution to the team’s success.

One X user wrote: “Cubarsi is a Beckenbauer x Baresi hybrid La Masia you’ve done it again.”

A second tweeted: “Cubarsi was so good at youth level but the way he’s transitioned seamlessly to the first team is ridiculous. The top level of anticipation, composure and security on the ball, timed aggressions. Such an impressive half from him today. For only 17, what he’s doing is crazy.”

A third added: “That Pau Cubarsi pass to Lewandowski to start the goal… my God this is a generational centre back.”

A fourth said: “Cubarsi. When center-backs become the real game-changers.”

Another commented: “It’s not Cubarsi against the elite. It is Cubarsi amongst it.”