Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have once again earned recognition among the world’s top players after being named on the 26-player shortlist for the 2026 FIFA FIFPRO Men’s World 11.
The two legendary footballers are joined by several prominent names, including Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal.
Unlike many football awards, the FIFA FIFPRO World 11 is selected by professional footballers themselves rather than journalists or fans.
According to FIFPRO, a total of 19,806 professional footballers from 73 countries participated in this year’s voting.
Messi, 39, and Ronaldo, 41, have continued to attract recognition from their fellow professionals despite their age and the emergence of a new generation of football talent.
The final World 11 lineup will be announced on November 9, 2026.
Players were assessed on their performances between August 4, 2025, and July 19, 2026.
The final team will feature one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. The 11th position will go to the outfield player who receives the highest number of votes among the remaining nominees.