Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has emerged as the leading contender for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Young Player of the Tournament award after a series of commanding displays helped La Roja reach the final.
The 19-year-old Barcelona centre-back has been one of the standout performers in North America, anchoring Spain’s defence with a string of composed performances that have strengthened his case to succeed Argentina’s Enzo Fernández, who won the award at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The FIFA Young Player Award is presented to the best player aged 21 or under at the tournament. Since its introduction in 2006, it has recognised emerging stars including Lukas Podolski, Thomas Müller, Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappé and Fernández.
Cubarsí’s mature performances have placed him ahead of several highly rated youngsters, including Spain teammate Lamine Yamal and France’s Désiré Doué, as the race enters its final stages.
1. Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
