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Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has been named Best Young Player of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an exceptional tournament culminating in La Roja’s 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in Sunday’s final.
The 19-year-old centre-back received the prestigious award after playing a key role in Spain’s successful season, producing a series of composed and commanding performances which helped his country win the FIFA World Cup for the second time in history. Project reports
Exceptional campaign
Cubarsí’s emergence as the tournament’s best young player further underlined Spain’s dominance in the competition, with Luis de la Fuente’s side combining youthful brilliance and experience to regain football’s biggest prize.
Widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects ahead of the tournament, Cubarsi exceeded expectations throughout the month-long competition.
The Barcelona defender has been a rock at the heart of the Spanish defence, showing remarkable composure, tactical intelligence and maturity despite his young age.
Together with the experienced Aymeric Laporte in central defence, Cubarsí helped Spain maintain one of the strongest defensive records of the tournament, frustrating some of the world’s most dangerous attacking players.
His ability to read the game, intercept dangerous passes and remain calm under pressure has earned widespread praise from football analysts and fans alike.
Solid in the finish
Cubarsí once again delivered a confident performance in the World Cup final against reigning champions Argentina.
Tasked with containing Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez, the young defender remained disciplined throughout, making crucial tackles, interceptions and clearances as Spain held Argentina goalless for 120 minutes.
His partnership with Laporte proved instrumental in limiting Argentina’s attacking opportunities, allowing Spain to dominate possession before substitute Ferran Torres scored the winner in the 106th minute.
This performance capped off an unforgettable tournament for the youngster, who continued to demonstrate maturity well beyond his years on football’s biggest stage.
Reward for a rapid rise
Cubarsí’s recognition as the tournament’s best young player marks another significant milestone in his rapidly developing career.
Having joined Barcelona’s first team as a teenager, the defender quickly established himself as one of the most promising central defenders in world football.
His performances at the World Cup have further cemented his growing reputation, with many observers predicting he will become a cornerstone of Spain’s defense for years to come.
The award also reflects the faith shown in him by coach Luis de la Fuente, who gave the youngster a starting role throughout the tournament despite the enormous pressure of international football.
The new Spanish generation shines
Cubarsí was one of many young Spanish stars who impressed during the tournament.
Teenage winger Lamine Yamal continued his remarkable rise with another set of outstanding performances, while established players such as Rodri, Dani Olmo and Unai Simón provided leadership and experience.
The blend of youthful energy and seasoned quality saw Spain overcome Austria, Portugal, Belgium, France and reigning champions Argentina in their bid to clinch the World Cup.
Spain’s success is widely seen as the start of a new era for La Roja, with a generation of talented young players expected to dominate international football in the coming years.
Historic honor
The FIFA Best Young Player Award is presented to the outstanding player aged 21 or under at the World Cup, recognizing excellence, consistency and overall contribution throughout the tournament.
In claiming the award, Cubarsí joins an elite list of footballers whose performances have heralded him on the world stage.
For the Barcelona defender, the individual honor capped a dream tournament that also ended with a World Cup winners’ medal.
As Spain celebrated their return to the top of world football, Cubarsí’s emergence as the competition’s best young player offered further proof that the country’s future remains exceptionally bright.
The award not only recognizes his outstanding performances in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but also signals the arrival of one of the most exciting defensive talents in world football.
