Barcelona’s teenage forward Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé have been named in the FIFPRO 2025 Men’s World XI, unveiled on Monday, November 3, 2025.
The annual team, voted for by more than 26,000 professional footballers worldwide, recognises the top performers of the 2024–2025 season across all major leagues.
Yamal, 17, made history as the youngest player ever to make the World XI following a stellar season for Barcelona and Spain.
His composure and consistency at the highest level have established him among football’s brightest emerging stars.
Mbappé, 26, retained his spot after a remarkable debut campaign with Real Madrid, where he helped secure major domestic and European titles, reaffirming his place among the game’s global elite.
This year’s selection reflected a clear generational shift, with Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Vinícius Júnior also named in the lineup.
Long-time icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were omitted for the first time in more than a decade, marking the end of an era defined by their rivalry.
Several other notable names made the final shortlist.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) and Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) represented African football, while Cole Palmer (Chelsea) earned his first-ever nomination after a breakthrough season in England.
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In the women’s category, England’s Lucy Bronze led the FIFPRO 2025 Women’s World XI, marking a record-extending eighth appearance.
Nigerian defender Michelle Alozie and Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak were also shortlisted, underlining Africa’s growing presence in world football.
FIFPRO described the World XI as “the only global football award decided exclusively by players, celebrating excellence as judged by peers.”
Jointly organised with FIFA since 2005, the FIFPRO World XI remains one of the sport’s most respected honours, symbolising recognition from those who play the game at its highest level.