Lionel Messi has made history again after securing his 18th appearance in the FIFPRO World 11, extending his remarkable record. The Argentine superstar returned to the prestigious team for the first time since 2023. Professional footballers from 73 countries voted for the 2026 selection.
FIFPRO announced the results on November 9, confirming Messi’s place among the world’s standout performers. At 39, the Inter Miami captain continues to earn recognition from fellow professionals. His latest selection underlines his extraordinary longevity and influence across generations.
No other player has reached 18 appearances in the men’s team. Messi joins a star-studded attacking line featuring Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal.
Their selection reflects outstanding performances during the assessment period. The voting covered matches from August 4, 2025, to July 19, 2026. The voting process involved 19,806 professional male footballers representing 73 countries.
Players selected their preferred performers across goalkeeping, defence, midfield and forward positions. FIFPRO then awarded places to the highest vote-getters in each category. Messi’s return also makes him the only selected player representing a club outside Europe.
He remains a central figure for Inter Miami and Argentina, despite entering the later stages of his career. Meanwhile, Yamal achieved another milestone through his selection. The 19-year-old became the first player to earn two World 11 appearances before turning 20.
Spain also secured four places, with David Raya, Pau Cubarsí and Rodri joining Yamal. The final lineup features several leading names from Europe’s biggest clubs. However, Harry Kane missed out despite winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Messi’s 18th FIFPRO World 11 appearance adds another remarkable chapter to his decorated career. The record highlights the respect he continues to command among footballers worldwide.
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