Lionel Messi has returned to the FIFPRO Men‘s World 11 for a record 18th time. However, 2026 Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane missed out on the team announced on Monday.
Professional footballers from 73 countries voted for the men’s team. Messi earned his first selection since 2023 after another impressive year with Inter Miami.
The 39-year-old Argentina forward announced his international retirement in August. He decided after helping his country reach the 2026 World Cup final. However, he continues to play club football.
Messi joined Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in the forward line.
Yamal also made history with his selection. The 19-year-old became the first player to earn two FIFPRO World 11 appearances before turning 20. He also featured in last year’s team.
His Spain teammates Rodri, Pau Cubarsi and David Raya also made the men’s team.
Why Kane missed out
Kane’s absence was one of the biggest surprises from Monday’s announcement.
The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed a prolific 2025-26 season. He helped the German club win the Bundesliga and captained England to the World Cup semi-finals.
His omission raised eyebrows, especially after he won the 2026 Ballon d’Or in October.
The men’s team also featured Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham and Paris Saint-Germain players Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes and Vitinha.
Bronze makes history in women’s team
Meanwhile, England and Chelsea defender Lucy Bronze made history in the women’s selection.
She became the first woman to earn nine FIFPRO Women’s World 11 appearances.
Zambia striker Barbra Banda was the only player from outside England and Spain to make the team. She joined Barcelona’s Claudia Pina and Arsenal forward Alessia Russo in attack.
Spain midfielders Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas also earned places in the team. Both players have won the Ballon d’Or Féminin three times.
Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton completed the team alongside defenders Alex Greenwood, Mapi Leon and Irene Paredes. Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone also made the selection.
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