Messi and Ronaldo shine in FIFPRO’s World Team of the year shortlist

Despite stepping away from European football, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to command global admiration. The two legends are the only players outside Europe’s top leagues to feature on the prestigious 26-man shortlist for the World Team of the Year, organized by FIFPRO, the global players’ union.

At 37 and 39, respectively, Messi and Ronaldo’s enduring influence in the sport stands in stark contrast to other non-European stars, including Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, who remains absent from this year’s lineup.

The other 24 nominees are players who competed in England, Germany, Spain, and France during the 2023 season. Kylian Mbappé, who played for Paris Saint-Germain, is the sole French player to make the list, while no players from Italy, South America, or Africa were selected.

Real Madrid leads with eight players on the shortlist, including Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham. Manchester City follows closely with seven names, such as Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, and Erling Haaland.

Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, a 17-year-old sensation who helped Spain clinch the European Championship title, also received recognition from union members worldwide.

Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, and Ronaldo, representing Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, will learn on December 9 if they have secured a spot in the final World XI team.

According to FIFPRO, the ultimate lineup will include the goalkeeper with the highest votes, three top defenders, midfielders, and forwards, and one additional outfield player with the most votes.

This year, 28,000 players from 70 countries participated in the voting process, emphasizing the global nature of the awards and the lasting impact of football’s most iconic figures.

As the world eagerly awaits the final announcement, Messi and Ronaldo’s continued presence in such elite company is a testament to their unparalleled legacy in the beautiful game.