Andrés Cubas #20: The Midfield Maestro Who Steals Balls, Hearts, and the Coach’s Coffee
When you watch Andrés Cubas in midfield for Vancouver Whitecaps FC, you see a player who thrives on control and precision. He wears the number 20 shirt and anchors the team with sharp positioning, relentless tackling, and smart distribution.
You get a midfielder who sets the tempo by breaking up attacks and starting transitions. That makes him one of the most reliable players in MLS at his position.
His journey shaped him in obvious ways. Born in Argentina and developed at Boca Juniors, Cubas played for Talleres and Nîmes Olympique in France before landing in Vancouver in 2022.
His experience in South America and Europe shows in every performance. You notice a player who mixes technical skill with a kind of defensive grit that’s hard to teach.
At the international level, Cubas represents Paraguay. He’s earned a regular spot in World Cup qualifying and Copa América matches because of his consistency.
His impact stretches beyond club football. As you follow his story, you start to see why Vancouver made him a Designated Player and a key part of their future.
For a midfielder who studied the game from Boca’s academy to MLS, Cubas gives you a glimpse of what leadership in the middle of the field really looks like.
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Andrés Cubas at Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Andrés Cubas brings more than just midfield energy to Vancouver Whitecaps FC. His defensive discipline and steady presence in the middle of the pitch stand out.
He influences matches at both the club and international levels. That’s not something you see every day.
Role as Defensive Midfielder
Watch Cubas and his defensive midfielder role jumps out right away. He positions himself in front of the backline, breaking up attacks and forcing turnovers with well-timed tackles.
He reads the game so well, closing passing lanes before most players even spot the danger.
At Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Cubas ranks among the league’s most reliable ball winners. In 2024 MLS play, he averaged 2.0 successful tackles per 90 minutes, which is up there with the best.
He also led the team in interceptions, showing just how often he disrupts opponents’ rhythm.
Cubas rarely ventures too far forward, but when he does, he chips in with short passes and the occasional assist. His ability to shield the defense lets teammates push higher up the field with confidence.
That balance makes him a central figure in VWFC’s midfield structure.
Jersey Number and Squad Status
You spot him by the number 20 on his back. Since joining the club in April 2022 from Nîmes Olympique in France, he’s held a Designated Player contract—a sign of his importance.
In July 2023, he extended that deal through 2026, with a club option for 2027. That move locked him in as a cornerstone of the roster.
Cubas isn’t just another squad member. He’s one of the few internationals on the team who starts whenever he’s healthy.
His Designated Player status means he carries both responsibility and expectation.
At 29, with experience at Boca Juniors, Talleres, and in France, he brings a maturity you want from a leader in the locker room.
His status reflects both his on-field performance and his value to the club’s long-term plans.
Key Contributions to VWFC
Cubas has delivered in multiple ways since arriving in Vancouver. He scored his first goal for the club against Los Angeles FC in July 2022—a late strike that secured a 1-0 win.
That moment set the tone for his reputation as a player who thrives in high-pressure situations.
His consistency stands out too. In the 2023 season, he started 36 of 37 matches across all competitions, leading VWFC in both interceptions and tackles won.
In 2024, he tied his career-high with four assists, showing he’s improved his distribution.
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Goals | Assists | Tackles Won | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 20 | 19 | 1 | 0 | 36 | 34 |
| 2023 | 37 | 36 | 0 | 4 | 40 | 50 |
| 2024 | 36 | 33 | 0 | 4 | — | — |
He’s made his mark at the international level with Paraguay too, earning regular starts in FIFA World Cup Qualifying and Copa América.
That experience translates directly to his role at VWFC, where his calm presence and defensive reliability keep shaping the team’s midfield identity.
Cubas developed through Boca Juniors’ academy before moving to Talleres, Nîmes, and then Vancouver. That path, plus his international experience, gives him the pedigree you want in a player trusted to anchor the midfield.
For more details about his career and current role, check out his Vancouver Whitecaps profile or his Wikipedia page.
Playing Style and Position
Cubas plays as a midfielder who thrives on structure, discipline, and timing. His game centers on breaking up attacks, distributing the ball quickly, and covering ground with efficiency—not a ton of flair, but it works.
Defensive Midfield Attributes
Cubas lines up as a defensive midfielder, and it’s obvious how often he sits just ahead of the back line. He doesn’t rely on size—he’s only 5-foot-4—but uses anticipation and quick reactions to close down space.
You see him reading passing lanes and cutting off transitions before they get dangerous. His compact frame helps him stay low, which gives him balance in one-on-one duels.
He prefers to hold his position rather than push too far forward. That discipline is why Vancouver Whitecaps trusted him to anchor midfield in 33 starts during the 2024 season.
He ranked among the best in MLS for tackles per 90 minutes.
Key Traits:
- Strong positional awareness
- Quick reactions in defensive transitions
- Disciplined in holding shape
Central Midfield Versatility
While Cubas shines as a defensive midfielder, he can slide into a central midfield role when needed. He’s not a primary playmaker, but he connects short passes and keeps possession moving, even under pressure.
His time at Boca Juniors and Club Atlético Talleres in Argentina shaped his comfort in tight spaces. At Talleres, he played in a two-man midfield, which forced him to cover more ground and move the ball quickly.
With the Whitecaps, he sometimes pushes higher to help circulate possession. He rarely delivers the final pass, but he provides stability, freeing up attacking players to take risks.
That balance is why coaches like him in different midfield structures, whether in a double pivot or as the lone anchor.
Roles he covers effectively:
- Single pivot defensive midfielder
- Double pivot central midfielder
- Linking role between defense and attack
Ball-Winning Skills
You measure Cubas by how well he wins the ball back, and the stats back him up. He finished tied for third in MLS for successful tackles per 90 in 2024, averaging 2.0 per match, according to the Whitecaps FC profile.
He doesn’t just dive into tackles—he times his challenges cleanly. That approach reduces fouls and lets Vancouver regain possession without losing momentum.
His interceptions matter too. He recorded 50 in the 2023 season, which put him among league leaders.
His ball-winning isn’t reckless. You see him wait for the right moment, step in, and immediately transition the play forward.
That makes him valuable not only defensively, but also for starting attacks after turnovers.
Selected Stats (MLS 2023-2024):
| Season | Matches Played | Tackles Won | Interceptions | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 37 | 40 | 50 | 4 |
| 2024 | 36 | 2.0 per 90 | — | 4 |
Cubas’s ability to win duels and recover possession really defines his role as the engine of Vancouver’s midfield.
Career Achievements with Vancouver Whitecaps
Andrés Cubas has become more than just a steady midfielder for Vancouver. His time with the club has been all about measured consistency, defensive reliability, and contributions in key competitions that shaped the Whitecaps’ recent success.
His role goes beyond tackles—he’s influenced results in both domestic and league play.
Canadian Championships Success
Cubas has been central to Vancouver’s rise in the Canadian Championship. His ball-winning and calm distribution have given the Whitecaps an edge in knockout matches where possession and defensive structure make all the difference.
In 2022, just months after arriving from Nîmes, he helped the club secure the Canadian Championship title. He repeated that influence in 2023, again playing a key role as Vancouver defended the trophy.
The Whitecaps lifted back-to-back Canadian Championships in 2022 and 2023. During that stretch, Cubas consistently disrupted opposing attacks and set the tone in midfield.
His defensive positioning allowed attacking players more freedom, which proved decisive in tight matches.
His contributions in these tournaments underscored his value in high-pressure moments, where margins are slim and mistakes can be costly.
MLS Performances
In Major League Soccer, Cubas has shown he’s one of the league’s most active defensive midfielders. You notice his impact not through goals, but through the numbers that really define his position.
MLS Statistics (2022–2024):
| Season | Matches Played | Starts | Assists | Tackles Won | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 20 | 19 | 0 | 36 | 34 |
| 2023 | 37 | 36 | 4 | 40 | 50 |
| 2024 | 36 | 33 | 4 | — | — |
In 2023, he led the Whitecaps in interceptions and tackles won, ranking among the top midfielders in MLS. He also reached his 200th professional club appearance that season.
By 2024, Cubas kept up his reputation as one of the league’s best at breaking up play. He finished with one of the highest successful tackle rates per 90 minutes.
His consistency has given Vancouver a reliable anchor in the middle of the pitch.
Designated Player Status
When Cubas landed in April 2022, Vancouver made a statement by bringing him in as a Designated Player. They really showed how much they valued him. His first deal ran until June 2026, with an option tacked on for the rest of that year.
Then in July 2023, the club decided to extend his contract through the end of 2026, with a team option for 2027. They clearly liked what they saw from him in MLS and with Paraguay.
That Designated Player label? It comes with some major expectations. You want a return on that investment, and honestly, Cubas has delivered—just look at his defensive metrics, his leadership, and the steady performances he brings week after week.
Vancouver has found real stability in a spot that rarely gets much attention but is absolutely crucial. His DP status let the Whitecaps build around him, knowing they had a midfielder who could anchor the team in MLS and on the international stage.
Cubas grew up at Boca Juniors and then took his game to Europe, and you can see that pedigree in how he plays for Vancouver.
If you want more details about his role and contract, check out the Vancouver Whitecaps official profile.
International Career with Paraguay
Cubas has built his reputation on discipline and smart positioning, and he’s brought that same reliable approach to Paraguay’s national team. His international career stands out, especially in World Cup qualifying and Copa América appearances.
World Cup Qualifiers Participation
After switching allegiance from Argentina, Cubas became a regular in Paraguay’s World Cup qualifying campaigns. Since 2020, he’s started multiple CONMEBOL qualifiers, often taking on the gritty job of breaking up attacks and shielding the defense.
His influence really shows in matches against the big South American teams. For instance, he played in Paraguay’s 2026 qualifying opener against Peru and later against Venezuela, going up against his Vancouver teammate Sergio Córdova.
He doesn’t put up flashy stats, but his stability stands out. Managers trust him to start the big games, and that trust says a lot about his ability to read the game and stay calm under pressure.
World Cup Qualifying Stats (2020–2025)
| Competition | Matches Played | Starts | Assists | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONMEBOL Qualifiers | 12 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
Copa America Appearances
Cubas has also taken the field for Paraguay in major tournaments, including the 2024 Copa América. His selection there really showed how important he’s become to the squad.
In midfield, he provided balance—winning tackles and recovering the ball so Paraguay’s attackers could focus on pushing forward. He didn’t get on the scoresheet, but his defensive work gave Paraguay a solid base in some tight group-stage games.
Copa América is a huge stage for South American players, and Cubas held his own against top talent. Vancouver’s investment in him as a Designated Player makes even more sense when you watch him cover ground and disrupt play for Paraguay.
Paraguay International Caps
Cubas picked up his first senior cap for Paraguay in 2020, after playing for Argentina’s U-20s at the World Cup in New Zealand back in 2015. Since then, he’s made more than a dozen appearances, usually as a starter.
You can see his value in the way coaches keep calling him up. His defensive discipline fits perfectly in international football, where games are tight and mistakes get punished.
He keeps adding to his cap total as he stays involved in qualifiers and friendlies. For a midfielder who doesn’t score much, his reliability and longevity really define his international career.
Paraguay Senior Career
| Year Range | Caps | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–2025 | 14 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
Background and Previous Clubs
Cubas’ story is one of steady growth—he came through Argentina’s top academy, tested himself in Europe, and kept improving with every stop. His career shows both early promise and the kind of discipline you need to stick around at the top level.
Early Career at Boca Juniors
Most fans first noticed Andrés Cubas at Boca Juniors, one of Argentina’s biggest clubs. He joined their academy as a teenager and made his first-team debut in 2014, just 17 years old.
At Boca, he played as a defensive midfielder, where positioning and ball-winning matter most. He made 41 appearances, chipped in with one assist, and helped Boca win two Primera División titles in 2015 and 2017.
During this time, he also picked up international experience, representing Argentina at the 2015 U-20 World Cup in New Zealand. He later switched to Paraguay, but those early games for Argentina’s youth team gave him a taste of top competition.
Cubas also spent time out on loan. In 2017, he went to Pescara in Italy’s Serie A for half a season, then returned to Argentina with Defensa y Justicia, where he became a regular starter. Those stints gave him valuable minutes away from Boca’s crowded midfield.
Boca Juniors Statistics
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Titles Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primera División | 41 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| International Youth | 3 | 0 | 0 | – |
Time at Nimes
Cubas made his permanent move to Europe in 2020, signing with Nîmes Olympique in France. He adapted quickly, starting 47 out of 50 matches over two seasons.
In Ligue 1, he averaged 1.7 successful tackles per game, putting him among the league’s better defensive midfielders. When Nîmes dropped to Ligue 2, he kept up his form, leading the division with 2.6 tackles per game and ranking second for interceptions at 2.7.
His game reading stood out even more than his attacking stats. He scored twice and added three assists, but his main value came from breaking up play and protecting the defense.
Cubas’ strong performances in France caught attention and led to his move to Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2022, where he signed as a Designated Player.
Experience in Argentina
Before heading to France, Cubas spent two seasons with Club Atlético Talleres in Córdoba. He became a regular in their midfield, starting 49 of his 51 matches and scoring once.
At Talleres, you could see him mature into a defensive anchor. Unlike his early days at Boca, he took on more responsibility—setting the tempo and stopping counterattacks.
Playing in Argentina’s Primera División shaped his style. The league’s physicality and tactical demands got him ready for Europe, where he sharpened those same skills.
Cubas’ time in Argentina, from Boca’s academy to Talleres’ first team, gave him a strong foundation. That consistency made him a dependable choice for both club and country, and set him up for the next steps with Nîmes and then Vancouver.
Contract Details and Club Leadership
Andrés Cubas has turned into one of Vancouver’s most reliable midfielders, both on the pitch and with his long-term deal. His contract shows the club’s focus on stability, and leadership from the front office keeps him at the heart of their plans.
Contract Extension and Terms
Cubas signed a Designated Player contract that runs through 2026, with a club option for 2027. The Whitecaps announced this extension in July 2023, locking him in as a key piece of their midfield. You can see the official contract extension announcement from the club.
His deal makes sure he counts as one of Vancouver’s three Designated Players, which lets the club pay him above the league’s salary cap and still keep some roster flexibility.
Since coming over from Nîmes Olympique in 2022, Cubas has started almost every match when healthy. His durability and consistency made him an obvious choice for an extension, and the club didn’t waste time before securing his future.
Contract Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Contract Type | Designated Player |
| Signed | July 2023 |
| Length | Through 2026 |
| Club Option | 2027 |
Axel Schuster’s Role
Sporting director Axel Schuster led the way in negotiating Cubas’ extension. Schuster has always pushed for building around key players instead of chasing quick fixes. By locking down Cubas, he showed he’s serious about keeping the midfield steady.
Fans benefit from this approach because it means the roster doesn’t get torn apart every season. The Whitecaps now have a clear identity, with Cubas right in the center. Schuster’s influence goes beyond contracts, but this deal really highlights his vision.
Schuster also praised how well Cubas fit into the city and the locker room. That’s important for team culture, where chemistry and stability often turn into results on the field. His leadership matters just as much as the contract numbers.
Long-Term Commitment
The Whitecaps have made Cubas a long-term part of their project. His contract runs through his prime, as he turns 29 in 2025. That lines up with the club’s competitive window in MLS and regional tournaments.
Cubas has already helped Vancouver win back-to-back Canadian Championship titles in 2022 and 2023. That kind of success shows why the club made him a priority. You can check his player profile for more about his journey, which started at Boca Juniors before stops in Italy and France.
By holding onto Cubas, Vancouver sends a message: they’re not just a stepping stone for players—they’re building something lasting, with proven internationals at the core. That mix of ambition and stability is what keeps them competitive year after year.
Cubas, who started out at Boca before heading abroad, now has the chance to leave a lasting mark in Vancouver. His contract makes sure he’ll stay central, both on the field and in the club’s bigger plans.
Key Partnerships and Teammates
Andrés Cubas has built his Vancouver reputation by bringing stability to midfield and linking up with teammates who like to get forward. His influence really pops when he pairs with creative players who count on his defensive cover and passing.
Midfield Partnership with Ryan Gauld
The balance shows up best when Cubas lines up next to Ryan Gauld. Cubas—who came up at Boca, then moved through Talleres, Nîmes, and now Vancouver—focuses on breaking up play and moving the ball quickly. That lets Gauld push higher, create chances, and run the attack.
Gauld likes to find pockets of space, while Cubas stays disciplined behind him. This partnership keeps Vancouver’s shape defensively, but still gives Gauld room to operate. They complement each other: one protects the back line, the other unlocks defenses.
When both start, Vancouver usually wins the midfield battle. Cubas’ tackling and interceptions cut down pressure, and Gauld’s vision turns turnovers into scoring chances. Together, they’re one of the most effective midfield duos in the Western Conference.
Key 2024 Stats
| Player | MLS Starts | Assists | Tackles Won | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Andrés Cubas | 30+ | 4 | 40 | 50 |
| Ryan Gauld | 32 | 11 | 15 | 20 |
Impact on Team Dynamics
When you watch Vancouver, you can see how Cubas changes the way the team defends and transitions. He wins the ball and lets the fullbacks push higher, trusting him to cover space if they lose possession.
This gives Vancouver more width. Opponents often find themselves pinned back.
With Cubas anchoring the midfield, everything looks more organized. He cuts off passing lanes and forces teams to play wide.
That kind of pressure funnels attacks into spots where Vancouver can press and win the ball back. It’s a smart approach, honestly.
Cubas manages the tempo, too. He keeps things steady by recycling possession and making straightforward passes.
Attackers like Gauld benefit from this. They get to take more chances up front without worrying so much about leaving the defense exposed.
You notice the difference: when Cubas plays, Vancouver feels less shaky in transition and more composed in close matches.
His work might not show up on the scoresheet, but it really shapes how the whole team performs.
