Petar Cikusa: A Rising Star at 18 Joins Jordi Ribera's Euro 2024 Squad

Petar Cikusa, an 18-year-old talent born in the Catalan town of Bordils, has become a prominent name on Jordi Ribera's list of 20 players for the European Handball Championship in Germany. The young handball player, a product of FC Barcelona's youth system, stands out as one of the most promising prospects in Spanish handball, earning his spot among the selected few.

Cikusa, a right-back for Barcelona, has been a key figure in recent triumphs for Spain, winning gold at the U-18 European Championship and the U-19 World Championship. His standout performance came this season during a crucial Champions League match against Montpellier, where, at just 17 years old, he displayed maturity and composure beyond his years, helping secure a vital victory for Barcelona.

Jordi Ribera, known for his astute eye for talent, has been closely monitoring Cikusa's development. The young player's fearless approach and ability to handle pressure situations have not gone unnoticed. Ribera, who concurrently oversees both the senior national team and the youth categories, has been instrumental in facilitating the transition of emerging talents into the senior squad.

Cikusa, along with his twin brother Djordje, made their international debut for Spain at the age of 17, becoming the second-youngest players to achieve this milestone, trailing only Quico López Balcells. The twins' nationality extends beyond Spanish borders, with ties to Serbia and Croatia, adding an international dimension to their careers.

Ribera's decision to include Petar Cikusa in the preliminary squad for the European Championship reflects his confidence in the young player's potential. With a contract extension until after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Ribera continues to steer the generational shift within the team, strategically avoiding haste and ensuring a seamless transition.

Gonzalo Pérez de Vargas, the seasoned goalkeeper and a stalwart for Barcelona, finds himself alongside Cikusa in the squad. Despite enduring a challenging season marked by a decision not to renew his contract and a temporary removal from the captaincy, Pérez de Vargas remains a vital asset.

Aleix Gómez, the prolific right winger who has rediscovered his lethal form after overcoming Achilles tendon issues, is another Barcelona player earning a spot in Ribera's selection. The inclusion of Javi Rodríguez, a surprise addition to the list, adds depth to the squad.

As Petar Cikusa celebrates his recent 18th birthday, Djordje undergoes physical changes, emphasizing the unique journey of the Cikusa twins. Their age and shared talent make them integral to the future of the Spanish national handball team. As the Euro 2024 approaches, the presence of rising stars like Cikusa highlights the promising trajectory of Spanish handball under Jordi Ribera's leadership.