Barcelona began their Champions League campaign with a crucial 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, thanks to a superb brace from Marcus Rashford.
The English forward stole the headlines with two clinical goals, guiding the Catalan giants to three points in a tough away fixture. However, the victory was overshadowed by concern for young defender Pau Cubarsí, who was forced off in the second half with a knee problem.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Cubarsí had been experiencing discomfort in his left knee since the first half. The pain intensified after Rashford’s second goal and the celebrations that followed. With the cameras focused on Barcelona’s jubilation, the incident went unnoticed live, but the coaching staff quickly responded to the defender’s request to be substituted.
Cubarsí was replaced in the 69th minute by Andreas Christensen, at the same time Ferran Torres came on for Robert Lewandowski.
Barcelona’s medical team will conduct further tests tomorrow to determine the severity of the injury. There is growing concern that Cubarsí could be sidelined for this weekend’s La Liga clash against Getafe, leaving Xavi with an early-season headache in defense despite the boost of a strong Champions League start.
