Three goalkeepers from Spain's World Cup-winning squad have been nominated for the 2026 Yashin Trophy. Unai Simón, David Raya and Joan García are among the ten candidates for the award, which will be presented in London on October 26.
All three were key pieces in Spain's run to their second World Cup title in 2026. Their presence on the shortlist shows the strength of a position that is no longer a concern for La Roja. The full list also includes Yassine Bounou, Thibaut Courtois, Gregor Kobel, Emiliano Martínez, Édouard Mendy, Matvey Safonov and Vozinha.
Why is Unai Simón the favourite?
Unai Simón arrives with the strongest case following his World Cup performance. The Athletic Club goalkeeper was Luis de la Fuente's undisputed starter for all eight matches of the tournament. He won the Golden Glove after conceding just one goal and keeping seven clean sheets, setting an unbeaten record for the competition. His nomination is built not only on a good club season, but on being a pillar of the world championship victory. The Spanish national team's current form is reflected in the squad's stats page.
What do Raya and Joan García bring?
David Raya and Joan García completed the trio of goalkeepers Spain took to the World Cup. Raya arrived at the tournament after a top-level season with Arsenal, winning the Premier League and reaching the Champions League final. Meanwhile, Joan García emerged as a revelation with his performances for Barcelona, winning La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup with them. Their progression has been remarkable and both represent the extremely high level of competition for the starting spot. All three nominees are part of Spain's current squad.
Are there more Spanish nominations?
Spanish presence in the 2026 Ballon d'Or nominations extends to other categories. In women's football, goalkeeper Cata Coll, also of Barcelona, is among the candidates for the best women's goalkeeper award. Coll was decisive in her club's Champions League win, keeping clean sheets in a series of key matches before the final. In the youth category, Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí are again candidates for the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the world's best young player. Yamal has won the last two editions.
The 2026 Ballon d'Or gala will take place on October 26. The Yashin Trophy shortlist confirms Spain's global dominance in goal. Spain's next official match is a friendly against Italy on October 10, as shown on the team's fixtures schedule.
