Ballon d'Or 2026: 'Only one qualified' - Lamine Yamal names player to win special award

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal named his teammate Pau Cubarsi as the only player well-positioned to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or Men's Young Talent of the Year award. Both players are included in the shortlist for the Kopa Trophy, which will be awarded at the Ballon d'Or ceremony on October 26. The 19-year-old Cubarsi played a pivotal role in Barcelona's league title victory and was honored as the Young Player of the Tournament at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.