By Samuel Akpan
Lionel Messi has reclaimed his place in the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, extending his unmatched record as the award’s most selected player while Cristiano Ronaldo is left out.
The Argentine returns for the first time since 2023, taking his appearances to 18 after first featuring in 2007, earning recognition from peers across generations.
Lamine Yamal made history as the first player to secure two FIFPRO World 11 spots before turning 20, having also featured in last year’s team.
The Barcelona star joins Spain’s David Raya, Pau Cubarsi and Rodri, lifting the country’s record Men’s World 11 appearances to 53.
The team emerged from votes by 19,806 professional male footballers across 73 countries, one of the few major awards decided solely by players since FIFPRO began the process in 2005.
Voters picked their three best in goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and forward categories for performances from August 4, 2025, to July 19, 2026, with players needing at least 30 official matches to qualify.
David Raya (Arsenal) is in goal; Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Achraf Hakimi (PSG) and Nuno Mendes (PSG) in defence; Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona) and Vitinha (PSG) in midfield; Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid), Messi (Inter Miami) and Yamal (Barcelona) up front.
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