Pau Cubarsi retains lead in 2026 Golden Boy rankings

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi remains the top-ranked candidate in the 2026 Golden Boy award standings, as updated by Tuttosport. The center-back, who was previously named the best young player at the 2026 World Cup, holds the front-runner position early in the season. Barcelona claims four spots in the Top 50, with Lamine Yamal appearing in second place, though he is ineligible to win again after his 2024 victory. Marc Bernal holds the 20th position, while Xavi Espart debuts in the rankings at 50th. Manchester City midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi sits in third place, followed by PSG player Warren Zaire-Emery in fourth and Real Madrid signing Yan Diomande in fifth. If successful, Cubarsi would become the fifth Barcelona player to secure the honor.

• 12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Pau Cubarsi still No. 1 as four Barcelona youngsters in 2026 Golden Boy Top 50 rankings