Iconic Stars Messi and Ronaldo Gear Up for Another FIFPRO World 11 Showdown
In a thrilling continuation of their legendary careers, the enduring talents of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo position them as strong contenders for the 2025 FIFPRO World 11, highlighting their unmatched consistency in the world of football. These icons have consistently dominated the sport, with Messi boasting the highest number of appearances in the FIFPRO World 11 at 17, and Ronaldo close behind with 15 selections, proving their remarkable ability to perform at elite levels even as they approach the later stages of their journeys-Messi at 38 and Ronaldo nearing 41.
Exceptional Performances Fueling Nominations for the FIFPRO World 11
During the evaluation period from 15 July 2024 to 3 August 2025, Lionel Messi‘s outstanding contributions for both Argentina and Inter Miami have secured his spot among the nominees. His pivotal role in qualifying Argentina for the 2026 World Cup stands out, alongside his achievement as the 2025 Major League Soccer Golden Boot recipient, where he netted 29 goals across 28 regular-season games.
Ronaldo’s Scoring Prowess and Qualification Push
On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo‘s prolific form has been evident through his 35 goals in 41 appearances for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League during the 2024-25 season, complemented by seven more strikes in just eight matches this year. As a former star of Real Madrid and Manchester United, he is on the cusp of World Cup qualification with Portugal, who currently top Group F with 10 points, potentially sealing their spot by defeating the Republic of Ireland on 13 November or if results align favorably against Hungary.
Overview of the 2025 FIFPRO World 11 Candidates
The selection process for the 2025 FIFPRO World 11 focuses on peer recognition, distinguishing it as the sole worldwide football accolade determined by fellow professionals, unlike the UEFA Men’s Team of the Year, which relies on fan votes. The 26 finalists emerged from those who garnered the top votes, each having participated in no fewer than 30 professional matches within the specified timeframe.
Goalkeepers in the Running
- Alisson Becker (Liverpool, Brazil)
- Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid, Belgium)
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain/Manchester City, Italy)
Defensive Standouts
- Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool/Real Madrid, England)
- Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona, Spain)
- Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands)
- Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain, Morocco)
- Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain, Brazil)
- Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
- William Saliba (Arsenal, France)
Midfield Maestros
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England)
- Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/Napoli, Belgium)
- Luka Modric (Real Madrid/AC Milan, Croatia)
- Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea, England)
- Pedri (Barcelona, Spain)
- Federico Valverde (Real Madrid, Uruguay)
- Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain, Portugal)
Forward Line Contenders
- Ousmane Dembele (Paris Saint-Germain, France)
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway)
- Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France)
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina)
- Raphinha (Barcelona, Brazil)
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr, Portugal)
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, Egypt)
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)
The final FIFPRO World 11 lineup will consist of one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards based on the highest votes, with the last outfield position going to the player with the subsequent highest tally. This team will be officially unveiled on 3 November 2025.
Spotlight on Rising Stars and Award Winners
Joining the veterans Messi and Ronaldo are other notable figures, including Ousmane Dembele from Paris Saint-Germain and France, who earned a nomination after clinching the 2025 Ballon d’Or-the top honor in men’s football-for his instrumental part in PSG’s triumphant haul of Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the Champions League in 2024-25. Similarly, the young sensation Lamine Yamal from Barcelona has made the cut following his key contributions to the club’s victories in La Liga and the Copa del Rey last season, where he tallied 18 goals in 55 outings across all competitions and placed second in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
The FIFPRO World XI Shortlist: A Breakdown of Top Talent
Understanding the FIFPRO World XI Nominees
The FIFPRO World XI is one of the most prestigious honors in football, recognizing the best players from around the globe based on votes from professional footballers. In this year’s 26-man shortlist, we’re seeing an incredible mix of established legends and emerging stars, making the competition fiercer than ever. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of the most decorated players in football history, are vying for spots alongside recent Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and the promising young talent Lamine Yamal. This shortlist highlights the evolving landscape of global football, where experience meets innovation on the pitch.
Keywords like “FIFPRO World XI nominees” and “Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé” underscore the high stakes, as these athletes represent peak performance in major leagues and international tournaments. With the shortlist drawing from performances in the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and the FIFA World Cup, it’s a testament to the depth of talent in modern football.
Key Players on the Shortlist: Breaking Down the Competition
The 26-man shortlist for the FIFPRO World XI features a diverse range of positions, from goalkeepers to forwards, but the spotlight is on the forwards and midfielders who drive the game’s excitement. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, often referred to as the “GOATs” of football, bring their unparalleled records to the table. Messi, with his record-breaking assists and goals in Major League Soccer and international play, continues to dominate discussions around “FIFPRO World XI shortlist contenders.” Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s prolific scoring in the Saudi Pro League and his enduring physical prowess keep him in the conversation for top honors.
- Lionel Messi’s Case for Inclusion: Messi’s ability to control the game with precision passes and clinical finishes makes him a fan favorite. In recent seasons, he’s contributed to high-profile wins, including with Inter Miami, which could sway voter opinions in his favor. Keywords such as “Lionel Messi football achievements” highlight his eight Ballon d’Or wins, giving him a historical edge.
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s Unyielding Drive: Ronaldo’s focus on “Cristiano Ronaldo goal-scoring records” is unmatched, with over 900 career goals. His leadership and consistency in big matches, even at an advanced age, position him as a strong competitor against younger nominees.
- Ousmane Dembélé’s Ballon d’Or Momentum: As the latest Ballon d’Or winner, Dembélé’s explosive speed and dribbling skills have elevated him to star status. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain, his contributions in key UEFA matches demonstrate why “Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé” is a phrase buzzing in football circles. This award could tip the scales for his inclusion in the FIFPRO World XI.
- Lamine Yamal’s Rise as a Young Talent: At just 18, Yamal’s inclusion signals a shift toward youth in “FIFPRO World XI young talent nominations.” His breakout performances for Barcelona, marked by innovative plays and assists, showcase his potential. Fans are excited about how “Lamine Yamal football potential” might challenge veterans like Messi and Ronaldo.
How the Competition Unfolds: Factors Influencing Selections
Voter dynamics play a crucial role in the FIFPRO World XI selection process, with professional players casting ballots based on performances throughout the year. This year’s shortlist emphasizes a blend of individual brilliance and team success, making the race between Messi, Ronaldo, Dembélé, and Yamal particularly intriguing.
- Head-to-Head Comparisons: When comparing “Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo in FIFPRO,” statistics show Messi’s higher assist count versus Ronaldo’s goal tally, but Dembélé’s recent Ballon d’Or edge adds a wildcard element. Yamal’s youth brings fresh energy, potentially appealing to voters looking for “emerging football talents in World XI.”
- Impact of Recent Tournaments: Performances in events like the Euros and Copa America have boosted candidates. For instance, Dembélé’s role in France’s campaign contrasts with Yamal’s contributions to Spain’s success, influencing how “Ballon d’Or winner impact on FIFPRO” is perceived.
- Position-Specific Battles: The shortlist breaks down into categories like forwards and midfielders. In the forward line, expect debates on how “Ousmane Dembélé attacking prowess” stacks up against Messi’s playmaking, while Yamal’s versatility in midfield could secure him a spot over Ronaldo in a crowded field.
The Bigger Picture: What This Shortlist Means for Football Fans
Diving deeper, the 26-man shortlist reflects broader trends in football, such as the globalization of talent and the rise of young players from academies like La Masia. Keywords like “FIFPRO World XI diverse nominees” capture the inclusion of athletes from various leagues, promoting a more inclusive view of the sport.
- Statistics and Achievements to Watch: According to recent data, Messi leads in creative metrics, while Ronaldo excels in finishing. Dembélé’s speed ranks among the top in Europe, and Yamal’s dribble success rate is impressive for his age, making “young talent Lamine Yamal stats” a key discussion point.
- Fan Engagement and Voting Insights: Social media buzz around “Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi competition” amplifies interest, with polls showing divided opinions. This engagement helps SEO by driving searches related to “Ballon d’Or winner in FIFPRO shortlist.”
- Potential Outcomes and Surprises: While predictions favor Messi and Ronaldo, an upset by Dembélé or Yamal could redefine “FIFPRO World XI emerging stars,” inspiring the next generation of players.
This shortlist not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the collaborative spirit of football, with each nominee bringing unique skills to the table. By focusing on these details, fans can appreciate the depth of competition in the world of professional football.
