Pau Cubarsí has officially been named Golden Boy 2026, becoming only the second defender in history to win the award. The Barcelona star follows in the footsteps of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

OFFICIAL: Barcelona Star Wins Golden Boy 2026 Instead of Lamine Yamal

Barcelona have another Golden Boy winner, but this time it is not Lamine Yamal. Pau Cubarsí has officially been named the best young footballer in Europe for 2026.

The 19-year-old Spanish defender received the prestigious award after an outstanding year for both Barcelona and Spain.

The announcement was made on November 9, confirming another historic achievement for one of football’s brightest young talents.

Pau Cubarsí makes Golden Boy history

Cubarsí became only the second defender to win the Golden Boy award since its creation in 2003.

The first was Matthijs de Ligt, who received the trophy in 2018.

The Barcelona centre-back also became the fifth player from the club to win the award, following Lionel Messi, Pedri, Gavi and Lamine Yamal.

He will officially receive his trophy at the awards ceremony in Turin, Italy, on December 14.

World Cup success helps Cubarsí win

Cubarsí enjoyed an incredible 2026, helping Barcelona win another La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup.

However, his biggest achievement came with the Spanish national team.

The young defender played a key role in Spain’s 2026 World Cup victory and was named the tournament’s Best Young Player.

Spain conceded just one goal throughout the competition, with Cubarsí becoming one of the team’s most important defenders.

Why did Lamine Yamal not win?

Despite his impressive performances, Lamine Yamal was not eligible to win Golden Boy 2026.

The Barcelona winger already won the award in 2024, and the rules do not allow a player to receive the main prize twice.

That means Cubarsí did not directly defeat Yamal in the race for this year’s trophy.

Instead, he continues Barcelona’s remarkable success in producing world-class young players.

Another historic moment for Barcelona

Cubarsí expressed his happiness after receiving the recognition, thanking everyone who voted for him.

The young defender has quickly become one of Barcelona’s most important players despite his age.

With a World Cup title and the Golden Boy award already to his name, Cubarsí has established himself as one of the most exciting defenders in world football.

For Barcelona, his victory is another reminder that the club’s next generation is already making history.