The 2026 World Cup has become a stage for Lionel Messi to reinforce his legacy as perhaps the greatest player ever, yet there’s one accolade that will evade him: the Young Player of the Year award.
This award, created in 2006, goes to the standout player under the age of 21 in the tournament.
Interestingly, in the award’s history, just two winners have been from the teams that lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy. Kylian Mbappé took home the award during France’s victory in 2018, and Argentina’s Enzo Fernandes claimed it in 2022.
As the tournament nears its conclusion, Polimarket traders predict a close contest between two prominent Spanish talents.
Lamine Yamal, the 19-year-old sensation from Barcelona, leads the pack with a 69% likelihood of winning, while fellow 19-year-old Pau Kvarssi follows with a 30% chance.
Is the result already determined? Or could Kvarsi possibly pull off an upset against his Spanish teammate?
Odds for Young Players in the Tournament
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| Lamine Yamal | 69 percent |
| Pau Kubalsi | 30 percent |
Young Tournament Best Player Selection
Pau Kvarshi (+300, Polymarket)
While Yamal has shown promise, he hasn’t made much of a mark on the scoresheet this tournament, making it an intriguing scenario to analyze.
Despite solid performances, the 19-year-old has managed just one goal in seven matches without any assists.
There’s been plenty of buzz around Yamal’s contributions beyond scoring, but will voters disregard his lack of goals if he isn’t included in Argentina’s lineup?
Kvarsi, in contrast, has been pivotal in Spain’s defense, demonstrating remarkable consistency. He’s participated in every match and has only allowed one goal during the tournament.
Facing off against formidable players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Romelu Lukaku, and Kylian Mbappé, Kvarsi has held his own remarkably well for a teenager.
Although Yamal is undeniably a star, it could be argued that Kvarsi is more qualified for the award.
