Cubarsí’s Golden Boy win sparks Tuesday buzz across Spanish football

On Tuesday Spanish football awoke to a flurry of headlines, the most striking being Pau Cubarsí being crowned the Golden Boy 2026, a accolade that crowns the 19‑year‑old Barça academy centre‑back as the world’s best under‑21 player. His triumph adds a glittering note to a day that also saw a Real Madrid legend stepping into the Second Division.

Former Real Madrid striker Raúl González Blanco, also a former Castilla coach, has arrived in the Second Division with Real Oviedo. His appointment at the club’s Carlos Tartiere stadium was hailed as a huge surprise.

The Oviedo board dismissed manager Julián Calero after a recent victory in Cádiz and secured González’s role as head coach. González is set to make his debut behind the Asturian side’s bench this Saturday.

At 19, the Barça academy graduate was crowned Golden Boy 2026. He outperformed 24 other finalists to claim the world’s best under‑21 footballer honour.

Spain’s national team camp

Spain’s national team began its training camp at the Ciudad del Fútbol in Las Rozas, observing a minute’s silence for Jesús de Miguel before an evening session cheered by 1,500 supporters.

Midfielder Martín Zubimendi, a San Sebastián native, could leave Arsenal in upcoming windows, with Atlético Madrid positioning themselves to sign him and strengthen Diego Simeone’s midfield.

Barcelona and the Brazilian federation have coordinated a tailored fitness programme for attacker Raphinha during the international break to ensure his optimal return to the club.