Messi returns to FIFPRO World 11 as Kane misses out
Lionel Messi returned to the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 for a record-extending 18th selection on Monday, but Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane was a surprise omission from the team chosen by professional players from 73 countries.
Messi, who announced his international retirement in August after helping Argentina reach the World Cup final and continues to play club football for Inter Miami, was named in the World 11 for the first time since 2023.
The 39-year-old was selected in a forward line alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.
Lamine, 19, became the first player to earn two World 11 selections before turning 20 after also making last year’s team. He was joined by fellow Spain World Cup winners Rodri, Pau Cubarsi and David Raya.
Kane’s absence was notable after a prolific 2025-26 season in which he helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga and captained England to the World Cup semi-finals.
2026 FIFPRO MEN’S WORLD XI
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal, Spain)
Defenders: Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona, Spain), Achraf Hakimi (Paris St Germain, Morocco), Nuno Mendes (Paris St Germain, Portugal)
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England), Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona, Spain), Vitinha (Paris St Germain, Portugal)
Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway), Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain).- Reuters
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