Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has thrown his weight behind teammate Pau Cubarsí in the race for the prestigious Kopa Trophy, set to be awarded at the upcoming Ballon d'Or ceremony.

Both Yamal and Cubarsí were rewarded for their stellar exploits over the last 12 months when the shortlists were announced on Tuesday. The young Blaugrana duo were included on the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, as well as being named amongst the candidates for the Kopa Trophy — a prize handed to the best-performing player in world football aged 21 and under.

Despite their tender years, both players have played leading roles for club and country. Yamal and Cubarsí were instrumental in Barcelona's La Liga triumph and Spain's World Cup glory respectively, marking a remarkable rise for the teenagers on both domestic and international stages.

Taking to his official social media platforms this week, Yamal made his feelings on the Kopa Trophy race abundantly clear, writing: "The only winner should be Pau Cubarsí."

The public endorsement from one of football's brightest young talents underscores the close bond between the two Barcelona academy graduates, who have become integral figures in Hansi Flick's rejuvenated side. Whether Cubarsí will indeed clinch the honour remains to be seen, with the winner set to be revealed at the Ballon d'Or ceremony next month.