FIFPRO World 11: Messi Returns, Kane Misses Out on 2026 Team

Lionel Messi has made a historic return to the FIFPRO World 11, earning his record-extending 18th selection after being voted among the best players in world football by his fellow professionals. However, one of the biggest surprises in the 2026 lineup is the absence of Harry Kane, despite the England striker winning the Ballon d’Or.

The 2026 team was announced on 9 November following votes from 19,806 professional male footballers representing 73 countries. The selection recognises players based on their performances between August 2025 and July 2026.

Messi Extends His Record with Another Selection

Messi’s inclusion marks his first appearance in the team since 2023 and extends his record to 18 selections.

The Inter Miami forward has continued to earn recognition from fellow professionals, adding another major achievement to his remarkable career. He was selected alongside Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal in the attacking positions.

His return also highlights the lasting impact he continues to have on the game, even as he plays outside European football.

Why Harry Kane Missed the Team

Harry Kane’s absence is one of the most talked-about decisions in this year’s selection.

Despite winning the Ballon d’Or, the Bayern Munich striker did not receive enough votes to secure a place in the final lineup. He was among the 26 finalists but missed out when the final team was decided.

According to FIFPRO’s voting figures, Kane received 27.6% of the forward votes. That was below the figures recorded by Haaland, Messi, Mbappé and Yamal, who secured places in the final team.

His omission shows how competitive the selection can be, with professional footballers choosing the players they believe delivered the strongest performances during the assessment period.

Lamine Yamal Achieves Another Milestone

Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal also earned a place in the 2026 selection, adding another milestone to his growing career.

The Spanish forward became the first player to receive two FIFPRO World 11 selections before turning 20. His inclusion alongside established stars such as Messi, Haaland and Mbappé highlights his growing reputation among professional players.

Yamal’s achievement makes him one of the standout young players in this year’s team.

Full 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11 Lineup

The final team features players from several of Europe’s leading clubs, alongside Messi, who represents Inter Miami.

Goalkeeper

• David Raya (Arsenal, Spain)

Defenders

• Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona, Spain)
• Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain, Morocco)
• Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)

Midfielders

• Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England)
• Rodri (Manchester City/Barcelona, Spain)
• Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)

Forwards

• Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway)
• Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid, France)
• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina)
• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)

How Are Players Selected?

The FIFPRO World 11 is a football award decided exclusively by professional footballers. Players vote for the colleagues they believe performed best during the assessment period.

For the 2026 men’s team, eligible players had to make at least 30 official appearances between 4 August 2025 and 19 July 2026.

The final lineup is determined by votes across four positions: goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and forward. The players receiving the highest votes in each category earn their places in the team.

What the 2026 Selection Means

Messi’s return for an 18th appearance further strengthens his record, while Kane’s absence has created a major talking point despite his individual success.

The inclusion of young talents such as Yamal also demonstrates how the selection recognises both established stars and emerging players.

With votes coming directly from professional footballers around the world, the 2026 team offers a unique perspective on who impressed their fellow players during the season.

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