Messi returns to FIFPRO World 11, Ballon d’Or winner Kane misses out
The Argentina star was selected in a forward line alongside Manchester City's Erling Haaland, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.
Lionel Messi has been selected for an 18th time in the 2026 FIFPRO Men's World 11, compiled by professional footballers from 73 countries. The Argentine footballer, who announced his retirement from international football in August, was chosen for the forward line alongside Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Lamine Yamal. Notably, Harry Kane, the Ballon d'Or winner, was notably absent from the team.
Kane's absence was particularly surprising considering his impressive 2025-26 season, during which he helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga and led England to the World Cup semi-finals.
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- Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal named in FIFPro World XI but no Harry Kane or Cristiano Ronaldo thenationalnews.com
- Kane becomes first Ballon d’Or winner left out of FIFPRO World XI punchng.com
- FIFPRO Men's World 11: Messi makes record 18th appearance as Kane and Ronaldo miss out 3news.com
- FIFPRO officially unveils World Best XI for 2026 [FULL LIST] dailypost.ng
- Messi returns to FIFPRO World 11, Ballon d'Or winner Kane misses out channelnewsasia.com
