World Cup: 19-year-old Spanish star sets 44-year record, saddened by idol Messi's loss

Nineteen-year-old Spanish defender Pau Cubarsi has been awarded the Best Young Player title at the 2026 World Cup, marking a significant achievement and setting a record not seen in 44 years. Cubarsi, a center-back for Barcelona, was a crucial component of Spain's formidable defense, which allowed only one goal throughout the entire tournament, establishing a new record for the fewest goals conceded by a World Cup champion. In the final match, Cubarsi led all players with 139 touches, 121 successful passes with a 96% accuracy rate, 21 passes that broke defensive lines, and 6 clearances. He edged out his Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal for the award, becoming the first Spanish player to receive this honor and the first defender to win it since Manuel Amoros of France in 1982. Cubarsi cited Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, also a Barcelona alumnus, as his idol. He described the experience of playing against Messi as a great honor, admitting he was star-struck when Messi greeted the team in the locker room. However, on the field, Cubarsi remained focused on his task. Despite his personal admiration for Messi, Cubarsi expressed sadness at seeing his idol lose the final. Nevertheless, he concluded that winning the championship brought him immense happiness.

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It was a great honor to play against him. I had never even met him before, and when he came to greet us in the locker room, I was stunned, I couldn't believe it. But on the field, I focused on my task and tried to win the game for the team.