Unai Simón wins the 2026 Yashin Trophy as world's best goalkeeper

Unai Simón has been awarded the 2026 Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d'Or ceremony held at the London Palladium, taking the prize for the world's best goalkeeper ahead of Arsenal's David Raya and Thibaut Courtois in third place, according to L'Équipe, which published the full vote breakdown.

Simón's performances for Spain during the World Cup were central to the jury's decision. The Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper conceded only one goal across eight matches as Spain lifted the trophy, with his ability to play high up the pitch and act as a sweeper-keeper drawing particular praise, Mundo Deportivo reports.

The award carries extra weight given a notable paradox: Mundo Deportivo pointed out that Simón was not included in the 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist despite being recognised as the best goalkeeper of the season.

Simón himself acknowledged the unexpected nature of the honour. According to Mundo Deportivo's podcast Athletic Talks, he said he had felt he had a better chance than the last time the award was given — when Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez won — but admitted: 'Two years ago, if you'd told me I'd be nominated again, I'd have said you were dreaming. Winning it is pure madness.'

FootVal values Simón at €18.7m, roughly 15 per cent below his Transfermarkt market value of €22m. He is under contract with Athletic Bilbao until June 2029 and has averaged a rating of 7.21 across ten appearances in the current 2026/27 season.