Messi Makes FIFPRO World XI As Ballon d’Or Winner Kane Is Snubbed
England Captain Misses Out Despite Winning Football’s Top Individual Honour As Ronaldo Also Fails To Make Players’ Dream Team
Lionel Messi has been named in the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World XI, while England captain Harry Kane has suffered a major snub despite winning the Ballon d’Or.
The final team was selected through votes cast by 19,806 professional footballers after 26 players were shortlisted across four categories: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards.
Kane, who enjoyed an outstanding campaign for Bayern Munich and England, was among the nominees but failed to secure enough votes to make the final XI. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was also overlooked despite being nominated.
The team was named in an unconventional 3-4-3 formation, with Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya selected between the posts.
Barcelona youngster Pau Cubarsí, Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi of Morocco complete the three-man defence.
Rodri, Vitinha and Jude Bellingham were selected in midfield, while the attacking line features Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal.
Messi’s inclusion adds another major individual honour to his illustrious career, while Haaland and Yamal, both valued at €220 million by Transfermarkt, are among the most valuable players in the world.
According to Transfermarkt valuations, the selected XI is worth a combined €1.31 billion.
