After an incredible 17-year streak, Lionel Messi has not been included in the 2024 FIFPro Men’s World XI, marking the end of his uninterrupted run since first being named in 2007.
Professional footballers from 70 countries worldwide voted for the FIFPRO Men’s World XI. Messi had been a fixture on the list since his streak began on December 17, 2007, until it concluded on December 9, 2024.
Messi had been a constant presence in the past 17 editions of the award, with arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo closely following, earning a spot in the Men’s World XI for 15 years. Both superstars debuted in the list in 2007, but 2024 marks the first year neither is included. Notably, Ronaldo first appeared in the FIFPRO Men’s World XI in 2006.
Messi narrowly missed securing a spot in the top 11, finishing 12th with 21,266 votes from fellow professional players. Among 5,096 players, he was ranked as the fourth-best forward.
Despite no longer competing in Europe’s top leagues, the 2023-24 season has been far from disappointing for the Argentine icon. Having transitioned to MLS last season, he has made a significant impact in the USA, winning the Copa América 2024 with his national team and reaching the MLS Cup qualifiers.
For the first time since 2007, Leo Messi has not made the FIFPRO World XI.
What a run it was, though 🐐 pic.twitter.com/DSKczPFQLY
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 9, 2024
Messi and Al Nassr’s Ronaldo were the only nominees representing clubs outside of Europe. England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is featured on the list alongside current and former teammates Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal, and Toni Kroos, who retired after representing Germany at Euro 2024 during the summer.
Mbappe, who has faced challenges maintaining his usual form in 2024, and Vinícius Júnior are among six players who represented Real Madrid during the year and lead the forward line alongside Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. Haaland is accompanied by Manchester City teammates Kevin De Bruyne, Éderson, and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri in the lineup, which is voted for by players. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also secures a spot in the team.
The 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI:
Goalkeeper: Ederson (Manchester City, Brazil)
Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid, Spain), Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid, Germany), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands)
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, Belgium), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid, Germany), Rodri (Manchester City, Spain)
Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway), Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain/Real Madrid, France), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid, Brazil)
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
