Barcelona defender, Pau Cubarsi, has won the 2026 Golden Boy award following an impressive year with the Spanish club and national team, two months before his 20th birthday.
The 19-year-old played a crucial role in Spain’s World Cup triumph in North America, where he was named the FIFA Young Player of the Tournament.
He also helped Barcelona secure their second consecutive LaLiga title with solid performances at the heart of their defence.
The Golden Boy award, presented annually to the best young footballer in a calendar year, is determined by votes from journalists.
Eligible players must be under 21 and feature in a top European division.
Reacting to the recognition, Cubarsi expressed gratitude to those who voted for him, saying, “I’m very proud to receive the award and I thank all the people that voted for me,” Cubarsi said in a video broadcast by Tuttosport at the awards ceremony.
“It’s been a spectacular year and we’re going for more,” Cubarsi added.
Cubarsi becomes the first defender to win the award since Dutch centre-back Matthijs de Ligt in 2018 and only the second defender since the prize was introduced in 2003.
The Barcelona youngster has also spoken about the challenges defenders face in gaining recognition compared to attacking players.
“It’s harder for defenders to get recognition… we’re less in the spotlight,” Cubarsi told Reuters.
“Perhaps our work isn’t as visible because, at the end of the day, the forwards score lots of goals, provide assists, play a more attractive style of football, are more eye-catching.”
Spain conceded just one goal throughout their campaign to win the World Cup in North America, further highlighting Cubarsi’s defensive contribution to the team’s success.
The youngster follows Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal, Gavi and Pedri, who have all claimed the Golden Boy award since 2021.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Sweden forward Felicia Schroeder won the Golden Girl award.
