The 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World XI nominees have officially been revealed, with Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland among the 26 players shortlisted for the prestigious award.
The list features some of the biggest names in world football, alongside young talents such as Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi. The final team will be announced on November 9, 2026, following votes from professional footballers across the world.
According to FIFPRO, 19,806 men’s footballers from 73 countries took part in the voting process. The nominees were selected based on their performances for club and country between August 4, 2025, and July 19, 2026.
Players were required to make at least 30 official appearances during this period to qualify for the nominations list. Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or nominations, Cristiano Ronaldo makes the cut for this one.
Full List of 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World XI Nominees
The 26 shortlisted players have been grouped into four positions. A completed XI will be announced as the winners for this award.
Goalkeepers
Thibaut Courtois
Emiliano Martinez
David Raya
Defenders
Pau Cubarsi
Marc Cucurella
Virgil van Dijk
Gabriel
Achraf Hakimi
Nuno Mendes
William Saliba
Dayot Upamecano
Midfielders
Jude Bellingham
Bruno Fernandes
Enzo Fernandez
Pedri
Declan Rice
Rodri
Vitinha
Forwards
Erling Haaland
Harry Kane
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Kylian Mbappe
Lionel Messi
Michael Olise
Cristiano Ronaldo
Lamine Yamal
The inclusion of Messi and Ronaldo will attract attention from football fans, as the two legendary forwards continue to compete for individual recognition.
Mbappe, Haaland and Kane are also among the leading names on the shortlist, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal earns another major recognition for his performances.
The defensive and midfield sections are equally competitive, with players such as Van Dijk, Hakimi, Bellingham, Pedri and Rodri hoping to secure places in the final team.
The final 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World XI will be revealed on November 9. The team will include the goalkeeper with the most votes, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards.
The remaining place will go to the eligible outfield player with the next-highest vote total. With 26 players competing for just 11 places, the final selection will be closely watched by football fans worldwide.
