HOOFDDORP, Netherlands — This year’s FIFPRO men’s World Team of the Year has been announced, and notably, it does not include soccer legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. These two icons, who have shaped the game for years, were the only players outside of European clubs to be nominated in a 26-man shortlist published last week.
Lionel Messi, now playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer at 37, and Cristiano Ronaldo, competing in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Nassr at 39, will not be representing the team this year. The illustrious roster features six players from the record-breaking 15-time Champions League champions, Real Madrid, along with four representatives from Premier League giants Manchester City. Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk is the only other player who earned a spot on the prestigious list.
Professional players across 70 nations voted for this World XI. Goalkeeper Ederson from Manchester City takes up the net, while the defensive line comprises Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rüdiger from Real Madrid, alongside Van Dijk. A dynamic midfield showcases talents such as Jude Bellingham and Toni Kroos from Madrid, with Kevin De Bruyne and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri from Manchester City rounding out the group.
Upfront, a star-studded attack sees prolific striker Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinicius Jr. from Real Madrid combining forces. This marks the first time since 2006 that Messi has not been included in this honor. His record includes 17 selections to the team while Ronaldo has made 15, his last appearance being in 2021.
The global football award organized by FIFPRO has allowed professional players to vote for their men’s team since 2005, while the women’s team was added in 2015. This award stands out as it is the only one in soccer determined solely by players. A staggering number of over 7,000 women footballers participated in the voting process.
In women’s football, Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze has made history by being selected for the seventh time, equaling the record of France’s Wendie Renard. Aitana Bonmatí, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, has made the midfield after leading Barcelona to triumph in the Spanish league, cup, and the Champions League.
Veteran Brazilian player Marta, now 38, has returned to the team for the first time since 2021. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Barbra Banda from Zambia, playing for Shanghai Shengli and Orlando Pride, has made history as the first African woman to be included on the team of the year.
In goal for the women’s team is England’s Mary Earps, with defenders Olga Carmona from Real Madrid and Alex Greenwood from Manchester City. The midfield features Alexia Putellas and Bonmatí from Barcelona along with England’s Keira Walsh. The attacking lineup consists of Colombia’s Linda Caicedo from Real Madrid and England’s Lauren James from Chelsea.
