Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has explained what his side must do to make Hansi Flick’s high defensive line effective as they prepare for Sunday’s El Clasico encounter against Real Madrid.

The Catalan giants are approaching one of their most significant fixtures of the season, knowing that a victory over their fierce rivals would extend their lead at the top of La Liga to nine points.

Since Flick’s arrival, Barcelona have embraced an aggressive pressing approach designed to put opponents under pressure and maintain control of matches. Although the system has produced encouraging results, it has also attracted criticism because defending so high up the pitch leaves considerable space behind the backline for opposing attackers to exploit.

Cubarsi, however, believes the tactical approach can succeed if every player remains committed to the manager’s instructions and performs their defensive responsibilities collectively.

Speaking to DAZN in an interview reported by Mundo Deportivo, the teenage centre-back explained that maintaining a high defensive line has been a fundamental part of Flick’s philosophy since the beginning of his tenure. He stressed that the squad must fully embrace the approach rather than execute it inconsistently.

Cubarsi also highlighted the importance of the attacking players in making the system work. According to the defender, Barcelona’s forwards must press aggressively from the front to prevent opposition players from having sufficient time and space to organise their attacks.

He explained that the team could achieve significant success by maintaining clear tactical principles and ensuring that every player understands and follows the manager’s instructions.

The defender’s comments underline the importance of coordination throughout Barcelona’s lineup. When the forwards apply immediate pressure and close down opponents effectively, they reduce the opportunities available to rival teams to play passes that could expose the defensive line.

However, the system carries considerable risks if the initial press is bypassed. Opponents who escape Barcelona’s pressure can exploit the space behind the defenders, potentially creating dangerous situations through quick counterattacks.

Such vulnerabilities could prove particularly costly against Real Madrid, whose attacking players possess the pace and technical ability to punish defensive mistakes. Kylian Mbappe, in particular, could pose a significant threat if Barcelona fail to maintain their pressing intensity and defensive organisation throughout the match.

Despite recognising the challenges involved in defending far from his own goal, Cubarsi remains confident that effective communication and trust between teammates can help Barcelona execute Flick’s strategy successfully. Maintaining concentration and ensuring that the entire team moves together will be essential against an opponent capable of exploiting even brief lapses.

Away from the tactical preparations, the young defender also made clear that his immediate priority is helping Barcelona defeat Real Madrid. When asked about Lamine Yamal’s prospects of winning the Ballon d’Or and his own chances of claiming the Kopa Trophy, Cubarsi indicated that his attention was firmly on the upcoming Clasico rather than individual recognition.

Barcelona will now attempt to translate their defender’s confidence into a disciplined team performance. With the opportunity to strengthen their position in the title race, successfully executing Flick’s high-line system could prove decisive in determining the outcome of this crucial encounter.