League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Pau Cubarsi leads Golden Boy award race after World Cup success

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 10:25 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Pau Cubarsi leads Golden Boy award race after World Cup success

Summary

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi is the frontrunner for the 2026 Golden Boy award following standout performances for Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At just 19 years old, Cubarsi received the Best Young Player accolade, enhancing his candidacy as he outpaces teammate Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid's Yan Diomande in early rankings. Traditionally, forwards dominate this award, making Cubarsi's position as a defender noteworthy. Despite his lead, Juventus' Kerim Alajbegovic currently tops the public vote, with Cubarsi trailing him by a narrow margin.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cubarsi named Best Young Player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
•He leads the Golden Boy rankings ahead of Lamine Yamal.
•Public vote shows Alajbegovic leading with 48.3%.
•Cubarsi could become Barcelona's fifth Golden Boy winner.
•He is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders.

Latest Updates

10:25 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona gem a strong favourite to win 2026 Golden Boy award

What they're saying

"
Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi is emerging as the leading candidate to win the 2026 Golden Boy award following an outstanding year for both club and country.According to Mundo Deportivo, the 19-year-o...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona Real Madrid Atletico Madrid Paris Saint-Germain Juventus FIFA World Cup Soccer