Full list: Messi makes FIFPRO World 11 as Ronaldo misses out
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readLionel Messi has been named to the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, marking his 18th appearance in the prestigious lineup. The selection, which notably excludes Cristiano Ronaldo, also highlights the historic achievement of Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.
Context & Background
- ✦The FIFPRO World 11 is a unique global award decided entirely by professional footballers rather than media or coaches.
- ✦The selection process requires players to meet strict performance criteria, including a minimum of 30 official matches played during the assessment window.
Key Figures & Named Entities
Lionel Messi:Named to the 2026 team, extending his record to 18 appearances.Lamine Yamal:First player to earn two selections before turning 20; part of a Spanish contingent that reached 53 total appearances.19,806:The number of professional male footballers who participated in the voting process.
Outlook & Next Steps
The 2026 squad has been finalized and unveiled, with no further immediate legislative or administrative actions pending regarding this specific award cycle.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- Lionel Messi extended his record to 18 FIFPRO World 11 appearances, returning to the team for the first time since 2023.
- Lamine Yamal became the first player in history to earn two FIFPRO World 11 selections before the age of 20.
- The 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11 was determined by the votes of 19,806 professional footballers from 73 countries.
Key Facts:2007: Lionel Messi first appeared in the FIFPRO World 11 selection in 2007.August 4, 2025 - July 19, 2026: The assessment period for the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11 ran from August 4, 2025, to July 19, 2026.
Editorial Excerpt
Lionel Messi has been named in the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, extending his record as the most-selected player in the award’s history,
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
How are players selected for the FIFPRO World 11?
Players are selected exclusively through votes cast by professional footballers worldwide via a secure digital platform.
What is the minimum requirement for a player to qualify for the World 11?
To qualify, a footballer must have featured in at least 30 official matches during the designated assessment period.
