Lionel Messi extended his record in the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 with an 18th selection on Monday, while Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane was a surprise omission from the team voted for by professional footballers across 73 countries.
The 39-year-old Argentine returned to the team for the first time since 2023, joining Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal in a formidable forward line. Messi continues to play for Inter Miami after announcing his international retirement in August.
Yamal, meanwhile, became the first player to earn two World 11 selections before turning 20. The 19-year-old Barcelona forward also made last year’s team and was joined in the 2026 selection by fellow Spain internationals Rodri, Pau Cubarsi and David Raya.
Kane’s absence stood out after a prolific 2025-26 campaign. The England captain helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga and led his country to the World Cup semi-finals, but failed to make the final selection.
2026 FIFPRO MEN’S WORLD 11
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal, Spain)
Defenders: Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona, Spain), Achraf Hakimi (Paris St Germain, Morocco), Nuno Mendes (Paris St Germain, Portugal)
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England), Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona, Spain), Vitinha (Paris St Germain, Portugal)
Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain).
2026 FIFPRO WOMEN’S WORLD 11
Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea, England)
Defenders: Lucy Bronze (Chelsea, England), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City, England), Mapi Leon (Barcelona/London City Lionesses, Spain), Irene Paredes (Barcelona, Spain)
Midfielders: Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona, Spain), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona/London City Lionesses, Spain), Ella Toone (Manchester United, England)
Forwards: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride, Zambia), Claudia Pina (Barcelona, Spain), Alessia Russo (Arsenal, England).
