FIFPro 2026: The 26 contenders for the World XI revealed

The race to be named to the 2026 World XI is officially on. FIFPro has published the list of 26 players shortlisted for this individual award, which recognizes the best performances of the season. Among the main selection criteria, performances in the Champions League and the World Cup were particularly influential.

Four French internationals are among the players in contention. They are William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise, all selected after a remarkable season.

Paris Saint-Germain is also well represented in this selection. Four of its players have been nominated: Nuno Mendes, Achraf Hakimi, Vitinha, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. This presence testifies to the Parisian club's influence on the international stage.

The list also includes two major figures in world football: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite the evolution of their careers, both stars continue to be among the names considered for this prestigious award.

The 26 nominees will now await the verdict of the professional players, who are called upon to designate the best players of the year to make up the FIFPro World XI 2026.

The 26 FIFPRO nominees

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martinez and David Raya

Defenders: Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella, Virgil van Dijk, Gabriel Magalhaes, Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano

Midfield: Jude Bellingham, Bruno Fernandes, Enzo Fernandez, Pedri, Declan Rice, Rodri and Vitinha

Forwards: Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Michael Olise, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal