No African Players in the FIFPRO World XI Nominees: A Global Snapshot of Talent

The prestigious FIFPRO World XI shortlist is out, but the glaring absence of African players has sparked conversations in the football world. Surprisingly, the list also excludes players from Italian clubs, South American leagues, and African clubs.

The 2023 nominees highlight the dominance of European football powerhouses, with Real Madrid and Manchester City leading the way. Real Madrid boasts eight representatives, including stars like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham. Meanwhile, Manchester City contributes seven elite names such as Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne, and prolific striker Erling Haaland.

Adding a youthful flair to the list is 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal from Barcelona, who recently shone during Spain’s victorious European Championship campaign. His inclusion is a nod to the rising talent shaping the future of the sport.

Meanwhile, legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, now plying their trade in Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League respectively, remain in contention. Their inclusion continues the narrative of enduring excellence, even as their careers transition into new chapters. Fans and players will eagerly await the final reveal of the World XI on December 9, as the duo hopes to retain their spots among football’s elite.

How the FIFPRO World XI is Decided

The Netherlands-based FIFPRO union orchestrates this global accolade, with a staggering 28,000 professional players from 70 countries casting their votes. The team comprises:

• 1 Goalkeeper with the highest votes,
• 3 Defenders,
• 3 Midfielders,
• 3 Forwards,
• and 1 additional outfield player with the most votes.

The Nominees: A Breakdown of Talent

Goalkeepers

• Ederson (Manchester City, Brazil)
• Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa, Argentina)
• Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich, Germany)

Defenders

• Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid, Spain)
• Rúben Dias (Manchester City, Portugal)
• Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands)
• Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen, Netherlands)
• Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid, Germany)
• William Saliba (Arsenal, France)
• Kyle Walker (Manchester City, England)

Midfielders

• Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England)
• Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, Belgium)
• Phil Foden (Manchester City, England)
• Toni Kroos (Real Madrid, Germany)
• Luka Modrić (Real Madrid, Croatia)
• Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich, Germany)
• Rodri (Manchester City, Spain)
• Federico Valverde (Real Madrid, Uruguay)

Forwards

• Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway)
• Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England)
• Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain/Real Madrid, France)
• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina)
• Cole Palmer (Manchester City/Chelsea, England)
• Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr, Portugal)
• Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid, Brazil)
• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)

A Missing African Presence

While this lineup showcases the cream of global football talent, the absence of African players is a striking omission. With talents like Victor Osimhen, Mohamed Salah, and others consistently delivering exceptional performances, the lack of representation raises questions about the selection process.

As the football world debates these omissions, the final FIFPRO World XI will serve as both a celebration of excellence and a reflection of football's evolving dynamics on the global stage.