Messi, Ronaldo headline 2025 FIFPro World XI

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The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) has released the 26-man shortlist for the 2025 Men’s World 11, with global icons Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland among the nominees.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have once again been named among the 26-man shortlist for the 2025 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, joined by Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.

England captain Harry Kane, however, misses out as voting opens for football’s only global award decided entirely by players.

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The FIFPRO World 11 is the only global football award determined entirely by votes from professional players.

This years shortlist is highlighted by veteran players and emerging new generation talent. Messi, representing Inter Miami, and Ronaldo, currently at Al Nassr, continue to feature prominently despite playing outside Europe’s top leagues.

Haaland (Manchester City) and Mbappé (Real Madrid) headline the attacking contingent, while England striker Harry Kane is a notable omission.

Among defenders, Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Arsenal’s William Saliba are joined by emerging talents such as Barcelona’s Cubarsí and Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes. The midfield selections highlight Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde, alongside Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne and Barcelona’s Pedri.

Goalkeepers Alisson Becker (Liverpool), Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), and Gianluigi Donnarumma (now with Manchester City) lead the nominees between the posts.

The final team will consist of one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, three forwards, and one additional outfield player who receives the next highest number of votes.

The final lineup will be announced on 3 November.

Photo: Brennan Asplen/Getty Images

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