Lionel Messi has made a sensational return to the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 for 2026, extending his record as the most selected player in the history of the prestigious team.
The team, announced on Monday, November 9, was selected through votes cast by professional footballers worldwide. Messi’s inclusion marks his 18th appearance in the World 11 and his first selection since 2023.
The Inter Miami and Argentina forward headlines an attacking unit featuring Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal. Yamal, meanwhile, creates history by becoming the first player to earn two World 11 selections before turning 20.
Harry Kane, Cristiano Ronaldo Miss Out
However, there was no place for 2026 Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane or Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the final XI.
Kane’s omission is arguably one of the biggest talking points. Despite winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or following an outstanding campaign with Bayern Munich, the England captain failed to secure enough votes to make the final selection. He received 27.6 per cent of the forward votes, falling behind Haaland, Messi, Mbappe and Yamal.
Ronaldo, who was also among the 26 shortlisted players, missed out on selection. The Al-Nassr forward’s absence means neither of football’s two legendary figures, Ronaldo and Messi, has been joined by Kane in the final attacking combination.
Elsewhere, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya earned his maiden selection, while Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi also made his debut. Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes complete the three-man defensive unit.
The midfield features Jude Bellingham, Rodri and Vitinha, completing an impressive XI representing some of the biggest clubs in world football.
More than 19,800 professional male footballers from 73 countries participated in the voting, making the FIFPRO World 11 one of football’s most distinctive individual honours.
2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11
David Raya; Achraf Hakimi, Pau Cubarsi, Nuno Mendes; Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Vitinha; Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal.
Story first published: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 9:58 [IST]
About the Author
