Cubarsi wins Golden Boy award
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Barcelona teen Pau Cubarsi clinched the prestigious Golden Boy award on the cusp of his 20th birthday, marking a standout year for both his club and the Spanish national team. Cubarsi played a pivotal role in Spain's World Cup victory, earning the FIFA Young Player of the Tournament accolade. As the dependable anchor for Barcelona's defense, the club triumphed in their second consecutive LaLiga title.
The Golden Boy accolade is awarded by journalist votes to the most outstanding young player from a calendar year, requiring players to be under 21 and playing in a top European division. Expressing his pride, Cubarsi thanked voters during a video broadcast at the awards ceremony. He emphasized, "It's been a spectacular year and we're going for more."
The 19-year-old made history as the first defender to claim the award since 2018, and only the second since the award's inception in 2003. Defenders often face a challenge in gaining recognition, as forwards usually grab the spotlight due to their goal-scoring and assist-providing prowess. Spain's exceptional World Cup performance, where they conceded just one goal, saw Cubarsi carrying on the legacy of Barcelona comrades Lamine Yamal, Gavi, and Pedri, all Golden Boy winners since 2021. Real Madrid's Felicia Schroeder took home the Golden Girl award.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
