Cubarsí never imagined playing at a World Cup so young

A standout campaign for FC Barcelona and, above all, a magnificent World Cup with Spain — where he was crowned best young player — propelled Pau Cubarsi to the summit of the prestigious award presented by 'Tuttosport'.

The Golden Boy is back in Spain after a brief one-year detour to France. Following Desire Doue's 2025 triumph off the back of PSG's Champions League success, the accolade heads back to La Liga, which had previously held a monopoly between 2021 and 2024 through Pedri, Gavi, Jude Bellingham, and Lamine Yamal.

Under the competition's regulations, players are eligible to win the prize only once in their careers. Consequently, Lamine Yamal — the overwhelming favourite had that restriction not applied — was ineligible to retain the crown he claimed in 2024.

Cubarsi's remarkable individual year was further underlined by his Ballon d'Or finish. The Barcelona and Spain defender secured 12th place, ranking as the fourth-highest Spaniard behind Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Fabian Ruiz.