Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi is reportedly facing an uphill battle to win the Kopa Trophy, with teammate Lamine Yamal emerging as a possible favourite ahead of Monday evening’s Ballon d’Or ceremony.

According to journalist Santi Ovalle, Cubarsi’s reported absence from Barcelona’s travelling delegation could provide an indication that the award may be heading towards Yamal instead. The suggestion has generated interest ahead of the ceremony, although Barcelona have not officially confirmed the complete list of club representatives expected to attend.

Speaking on El Larguero, Ovalle discussed the possible significance of Cubarsi’s absence, suggesting that the defender’s failure to appear at the event could point towards Yamal being recognised as the outstanding young player. However, the situation remains uncertain, and no official announcement has established who will receive the award.

Cubarsi has enjoyed a remarkable period of development under Barcelona manager Hansi Flick. Despite his young age, the defender has become an important part of the team’s defensive structure, demonstrating composure under pressure, intelligent positioning and confidence when playing the ball out from the back.

His performances have helped establish him as one of the promising young defenders in European football. He has also gained recognition on the international stage, further strengthening his reputation after receiving the young player of the tournament award at the previous World Cup, according to the report.

Yamal, meanwhile, has continued to attract attention through his influence in Barcelona’s attack. The teenage winger has impressed with his creativity, ability to beat defenders and contributions in decisive moments. His performances have elevated him into the conversation surrounding football’s most prestigious individual honours, and he is also regarded as a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or.

The possibility of Yamal winning the Kopa Trophy has added another dimension to the build-up to the ceremony. The award recognises outstanding young footballers, making both Barcelona players relevant candidates given their achievements and growing influence at the highest level.

Ovalle also pointed to an unusual historical pattern involving the Kopa Trophy and the Ballon d’Or. According to the journalist, no footballer has won both awards in the same year. While that record provides an interesting talking point, it does not establish who will win either prize this time, nor does receiving the Kopa Trophy automatically rule a player out of contention for the senior award.

For Yamal, another individual accolade would represent further recognition of his rapid rise. However, the Kopa Trophy may not be his main focus if he is also competing for the Ballon d’Or itself. The outcome of the senior award could therefore be just as significant to Barcelona’s young star.

Cubarsi’s potential omission from the travelling group could disappoint supporters who believe his consistent performances over the past season merit individual recognition. His contribution has been particularly important during a period in which Barcelona have had to manage changes and challenges across their defence.

Nevertheless, the reported absence alone is not confirmation that Cubarsi has lost the award. Until the organisers announce the results and Barcelona clarify their delegation, speculation about the outcome remains unconfirmed.

Attention will now turn to Monday night’s ceremony, where the final results will reveal whether Yamal receives the Kopa Trophy, whether Cubarsi is present, and how Barcelona’s representatives fare among the evening’s major individual honours.