It's not common for a footballer to be left out of the race for the Golden Boy... for having outgrown it. But with Lamine Yamal, no conventional criteria can be applied. His case is exceptional in every sense.
The reason for his absence among the finalists on the list for the prestigious award isn't his age—he just turned 18—but that he has already reached a higher level. The rules don't allow him to win the award again.
The Golden Boy recognizes the best under-21 player in the world. It's an award reserved for the future stars of European soccer. Lamine no longer belongs to the future.
He is established in the present. He is a reality who rubs shoulders with the best on the planet, not with prospects.
Cubarsí looks to repeat feat
There is blaugrana presence with Pau Cubarsí, who has once again made it among the finalists after his brilliant breakthrough in the first team.
The Estanyol center-back has convinced everyone: the international press, Barça's coaches, the fans. Even national team coach Luis de la Fuente.
Cubarsí was already a Golden Boy finalist in 2024. Now he wants to finish what slipped away from him then. It won't be easy because this year the big favorite doesn't wear white or blaugrana.
Doué, the true rival to beat
Much has been said about Huijsen, the young Real Madrid defender. His performance doesn't reach Cubarsí's level. He is just another name on the list, without real chances.
The true contender is Désiré Doué, Rennes's midfielder, who has already played for France's senior national team and is set to become a world star.
Doué has it all: technique, physique, mentality, and consistency. His impact in Ligue 1 has been remarkable. The analysts at Tuttosport, organizers of the award, place him as number one on the current list.
Not even Cubarsí, despite his magnificent season, can compete head-to-head with the Frenchman in media terms.
Barça, always a protagonist
Beyond the final result, Barça remains a protagonist in this kind of recognition.
In 2021 it was Pedri. In 2022, Gavi. In 2023, Lamine.
Now it's Cubarsí's turn. The blaugrana club remains a factory of talent recognized across the continent. While Madrid bets on multi-million signings or foreign prospects, at Barça the talent comes from within.
Lamine, even if he doesn't compete officially, keeps setting the standard. Because when someone has already reached the elite at just 17, there are awards that become too small.
The Golden Boy has belonged to him for some time. Now it's someone else's turn.