2024 FIFPRO Men's World XI confirmed; Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo miss out

Messi was left out of the World XI for the first time in 17 years.

Lionel Messi breaks his appearance record, but Real Madrid’s top attacking pair was selected for the FIFPRO World 11.

Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. have been named as the attacking front three for the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World 11 on Monday. Lionel Messi was left off the roster for the first time since 2007. Four players—Ederson, Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, and Rodri—made their first appearances on the team.

Real Madrid have the most players in the World XI which is not surprising given their last season’s success. Real won both the LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League titles in the summer before launching into the new season with the UEFA Super Cup victory. The Spanish Super Cup victory came early, ahead of the 2024-25 season.

The World 11 is solely chosen by players across the world, unlike many other awards or recognitions in football. Professional football players from 70 countries casted a total of 28,322 votes, setting a new record for the number of votes this time.

26 nominees were announced last week, with the Premier League controlling the shortlist with 11 entries. Clearly shows that the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 voters (football players worldwide) recognise talents in the Premier League.

For the first time, six players received nominations: Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Lamine Yamal, William Saliba, Jeremie Frimpong, and Jamal Musiala.

There are no longer any obvious dominant powers on the team since Messi is not included. With five appearances apiece, Mbappe and De Bruyne are the most repeatedly selected players this season. Both Haaland and Van Dijk are making their fourth appearance.

This time next year, the next list will be made public. Players like Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer, and Lamine Yamal all appear to have positioned themselves well for a spot in the future squad (2025).

FIFPRO Men’s World XI 2024

Goalkeeper: Ederson (Manchester City)

Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)

Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (PSG/Real Madrid), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)

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