The FIFPRO Men’s World XI 2025 shortlist has officially been revealed — and it’s packed with the biggest names in world football. From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham, the lineup features the most exceptional performers from across global football.
The World XI is one of the most respected accolades in the sport, unique in that it is voted exclusively by professional footballers. This year’s 2025 shortlist showcases 26 elite players who have defined the past season through individual brilliance, leadership, and consistency.
🏆 What Is the FIFPRO Men’s World XI?
The FIFPRO Men’s World XI — officially known as the FIFA FIFPRO World 11 — is an annual recognition of the best 11 male footballers on the planet. Unlike other awards that rely on journalists, coaches, or fan votes, this team is chosen by footballers, for footballers.
Each year, thousands of professional players worldwide — across over 60 national player associations — cast their votes to determine the ultimate dream team. The lineup typically features one goalkeeper, four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards, though FIFPRO occasionally adjusts the formation based on the votes received.
The award represents the ultimate mark of respect from one’s peers — an acknowledgment that transcends club loyalties and national rivalries.
📋 The 2025 FIFPRO Men’s World XI Shortlist
Here’s the complete shortlist for the 2025 edition, featuring players who lit up domestic leagues, international tournaments, and European competitions:
Goalkeepers:
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)
- Alisson Becker (Liverpool)
- Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
Defenders:
- Achraf Hakimi (PSG)
- William Saliba (Arsenal)
- Marquinhos (PSG)
- Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona)
- Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
- Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
- Nuno Mendes (PSG)
Midfielders:
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- Luka Modrić (Real Madrid)
- Rúben Neves (Al-Hilal)
- Pedri (Barcelona)
- Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
- Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli)
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
- Vitinha (PSG)
Forwards:
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
- Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
- Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
- Raphinha (Barcelona)
This diverse mix includes seasoned legends, breakout stars, and generational talents who’ve inspired fans worldwide throughout the 2024–25 campaign.
🌟 A Battle of Generations: Messi, Ronaldo, and the New Wave
This year’s shortlist once again unites legends of the game with the next generation of global superstars.
- Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to defy time, securing yet another nomination thanks to their remarkable performances in MLS and the Saudi Pro League, respectively.
- Meanwhile, young sensations like Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Cole Palmer represent the future of football — showcasing the sport’s ever-evolving landscape.
- Jude Bellingham, arguably one of the standout names, is expected to be among the frontrunners after an extraordinary season with Real Madrid, where he has been both prolific and influential.
This blend of experience and youth makes the 2025 FIFPRO Men’s World XI one of the most intriguing shortlists in recent memory.
⚙️ How the Voting Works
The voting process is entirely player-driven. Each professional footballer is asked to select:
- 1 goalkeeper
- 4 defenders
- 3 midfielders
- 3 forwards
Votes are tallied by FIFPRO, the global union representing over 65,000 professional footballers. Once all ballots are counted, the final World XI is revealed at the FIFA Best Awards ceremony, where players are honored for their achievements.
The system ensures fairness and authenticity — it’s not about popularity or media hype, but about genuine recognition from fellow professionals who understand the demands of elite football.
🏅 Why the FIFPRO World XI Matters
Being named in the FIFPRO World XI is more than a personal accolade — it cements a player’s place among football’s global elite. Unlike trophies or league titles, which depend on team success, this award focuses purely on individual excellence, sportsmanship, and consistency.
Players who have featured multiple times — like Messi, Ronaldo, Modrić, and De Bruyne — have built legacies defined not just by silverware, but by the respect of their peers. For younger nominees, such as Yamal and Palmer, a place in the final XI could be career-defining recognition on the world stage.
⚽ When Will the Final Team Be Announced?
The FIFPRO Men’s World XI 2025 will be unveiled during the FIFA Best Awards Ceremony, expected to take place early next year. Fans, media, and footballers alike eagerly await to see who makes the final cut in what is considered the most prestigious “dream team” in football.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The FIFPRO Men’s World XI continues to celebrate football at its finest — skill, consistency, and the admiration of one’s peers. As anticipation builds for the final reveal, one thing is certain: every name on the shortlist has left a significant mark on the beautiful game.
Whether it’s Haaland’s goals, Bellingham’s dominance, Messi’s magic, or Yamal’s rise, this list encapsulates football’s past, present, and future — all united under one global stage.
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