Hansi Flick has agreed with Lamine Yamal's assessment that Barcelona teammate Pau Cubarsí deserved to win the Kopa Trophy, following the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony.
Yamal collected the award for the third consecutive year, becoming the first player to achieve the feat. However, the 19-year-old admitted during his acceptance speech that he would have preferred to see Cubarsí recognised for his performances over the past year.
The Barcelona winger highlighted his teammate's consistency and contribution, believing the young defender had done enough to take home the prestigious individual honour.
Flick has now shared his own verdict, backing Yamal's comments and acknowledging Cubarsí's impressive campaign.
Speaking to the media, the Barcelona manager said: "Pau Cubarsí deserved to win the Best Young Player Award, I agree with Lamine. His season was incredible."
The 19-year-old defender established himself as an important part of Flick's Barcelona side last season, making 48 appearances and playing a significant role in the club's success. He also impressed on the international stage, helping Spain win the World Cup during the summer.
Despite missing out on the Kopa Trophy, Cubarsí received further recognition after being included among the 30 nominees for the Ballon d'Or, eventually finishing 12th in the overall rankings.
Flick backs Harry Kane's Ballon d'Or victory
Flick also addressed the outcome of the men's Ballon d'Or, with Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane taking home the award ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Yamal.
Despite previously expressing his belief that the Barcelona winger deserved to win football's biggest individual prize, the German manager was quick to acknowledge Kane's achievements.
"Harry Kane also deserved the Ballon d'Or, but you already know my opinion on Lamine Yamal," Flick explained.
Kane enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, scoring 73 goals across club and international football as Bayern Munich retained their Bundesliga title and secured a domestic treble.
The England captain also finished as the Champions League's second-highest scorer, further strengthening his case for the award.
While Yamal ultimately finished third in the voting, Flick made it clear that his opinion of the teenager's ability has not changed.
Flick praises Yamal's mentality following Ballon d'Or disappointment
Perhaps most notably, Flick was full of praise for how Yamal has responded to missing out on the Ballon d'Or.
The Barcelona teenager had been among the favourites to win the award after another outstanding season, but has instead returned his attention to helping his club achieve further success.
Flick revealed that Yamal has remained focused during training, highlighting the mentality required to respond positively to individual disappointment.
"He's been very focused in training, and that's how champions respond. I am proud of Lamine. He has a top mentality," the Barcelona manager added.
The comments underline the confidence Flick continues to have in his young forward, despite the disappointment of missing out on the main award.
Having already won three consecutive Kopa Trophies, Yamal has established himself as one of football's most exciting young talents.
With both Yamal and Cubarsí continuing to play important roles at Barcelona, Flick will be hoping their individual recognition translates into further collective success for the club.
