Overview
- FIFPRO published the 26-player shortlist on Monday, Nov. 2, listing goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards eligible for the 2026 Men’s World 11.
- The shortlist was drawn from performances between Aug. 4, 2025 and July 19, 2026 and required players to have played at least 30 official matches during that window.
- FIFPRO says the award is voted on exclusively by professional players; most outlets report 19,806 men’s players from 73 countries cast ballots while one report gave a higher, disputed figure.
- The list mixes current top performers and long-term stars — names include Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and multiple nominees from clubs such as Real Madrid, Arsenal and Barcelona.
- FIFPRO will reveal the final World 11 on Monday, Nov. 9, with the team chosen as one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, three forwards and one additional outfield player.