The race to be crowned the best young player in world football has reached its final stage following the announcement of the 25-man shortlist for the 2026 Golden Boy award. Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed current holder Desire Doue after a sensational year for club and country.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the most clinical finishers in the Premier Soccer League, but his international aspirations remain clouded by a perceived bias against African-based talent. Despite his prolific form for Abafana Bes'thende, the Ivorian striker is reportedly facing a nearly impossible task to break into The Elephants' star-studded squad.
Real Madrid's blockbuster summer signing Yan Diomande has officially broken his silence following a pointed social media jab from the wife of Barcelona forward Karim Adeyemi. The Ivorian winger, who arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu under immense scrutiny, chose a musical route to address the critics questioning his hefty price tag.
