Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has won the 2026 Golden Boy award after an impressive year with club and country.
The 19-year-old helped Spain win the World Cup in North America. He also played a key role in Barcelona’s successful LaLiga title defence.
Cubarsi won the award less than two months before his 20th birthday. His performances throughout the year earned him recognition as one of Europe’s best young players.
Cubarsi shines for Spain, Barcelona
The defender was a key part of Spain’s World Cup-winning team. The country conceded only one goal throughout the tournament.
His displays also earned him the FIFA Young Player of the Tournament award.
At club level, Cubarsi helped Barcelona win their second consecutive LaLiga title. He played a major role in the team’s defence throughout the campaign.
“I’m very proud to receive the award, and I thank all the people who 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,” he added.
Cubarsi makes history with Golden Boy win
The Golden Boy award recognises the best young footballer over a calendar year. Journalists select the winner through a voting process.
Players must be under 21 and feature in one of Europe’s top divisions to qualify.
Cubarsi is the first defender to win the award since Dutchman Matthijs de Ligt in 2018. He is also only the second defender to claim the honour since its introduction in 2003.
Speaking to Reuters in October, the Barcelona teenager explained why defenders often receive less attention than attacking players.
“It’s harder for defenders to get recognition… we’re less in the spotlight,” he said.
“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.”
Cubarsi joins Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal, Gavi and Pedri among recent Golden Boy winners. All three players have received the award since 2021.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Sweden forward Felicia Schroeder won the Golden Girl award.
Leave a Reply