Ronaldo, Messi and Mbappé Headline 2026 FIFPRO World XI Shortlist as Football's Biggest Stars Battle for Recognition

Football superstars Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé have been named among the leading nominees for the 2026 FIFPRO Men's World 11, joining several other prominent footballers in the race for a place in the prestigious team of the year.

The shortlist, officially released by the global professional footballers' union, FIFPRO, on Monday, November 2, features 26 players selected through votes cast by professional footballers from different countries.

The announcement has attracted significant attention across the football world, particularly because of the continued presence of veteran superstars Ronaldo and Messi alongside younger talents such as Mbappé and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.

According to FIFPRO, a total of 19,806 professional male footballers from 73 countries participated in the voting process, making the award one of the most distinctive recognitions in international football.

Ronaldo and Messi Continue to Make Their Mark

The inclusion of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi highlights the remarkable longevity of two players who have dominated international football for nearly two decades.

Despite being in the later stages of their playing careers, both superstars continue to attract attention through their performances for their respective clubs and national teams.

Ronaldo, who represents Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr and Portugal, remains one of football's most recognised goalscorers. His nomination further demonstrates the continued respect he commands among professional players.

Messi, meanwhile, continues to represent Inter Miami and Argentina. The Argentine captain remains an influential figure in world football, with his creativity, technical ability and leadership continuing to distinguish him.

Their inclusion also provides another opportunity for football supporters to celebrate the careers of two players widely regarded as among the greatest in the history of the sport.

Mbappé Leads the New Generation

French forward Kylian Mbappé is another major name on the shortlist.

The Real Madrid attacker has established himself as one of the most influential players of his generation, combining pace, technical ability and impressive goalscoring qualities.

His nomination alongside Ronaldo and Messi reflects the changing generation of football superstars, as younger players increasingly compete with established legends for individual recognition.

Other notable forwards included on the shortlist are Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Michael Olise and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Full List of 2026 Men's World XI Nominees

The 26 shortlisted players are divided into four categories.

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martínez and David Raya.

Defenders: Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella, Virgil van Dijk, Gabriel Magalhães, Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano.

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Bruno Fernandes, Enzo Fernández, Pedri, Declan Rice, Rodri and Vitinha.

Forwards: Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal.

How the FIFPRO World XI Is Selected

Unlike several other major individual football awards, the FIFPRO World 11 is determined exclusively by votes from professional footballers.

Players vote for those they believe delivered outstanding performances during the qualifying period.

For the 2026 men's award, eligible performances covered August 4, 2025, to July 19, 2026. Players were required to have made at least 30 official appearances during that period.

The final team will consist of one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards, with the remaining position awarded to the next highest-voted outfield player.

Final World XI Announcement Set for November 9

Football supporters will not have to wait much longer to discover which nominees will eventually secure places in the final team.

FIFPRO has scheduled the official announcement of the 2026 World XI for Monday, November 9, through its digital platforms.

As anticipation builds, attention will remain on the legendary rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi, the growing influence of Mbappé and the emergence of younger stars.

Ultimately, the award represents recognition from fellow professionals, making selection a significant achievement for every shortlisted player.