Messi and Ronaldo Miss Out as Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham Shine in 2024 FIFPro World XI
It’s the end of an era, folks. For the first time since 2006, Lionel Messi, the undisputed king of football for nearly two decades, has been left out of the FIFPro Men’s World XI. That’s right—Messi, who had been a fixture in the lineup for 17 consecutive years, is nowhere to be found in the 2024 edition. And he’s not alone. Cristiano Ronaldo, his longtime rival and another perennial presence in the World XI, also misses out for the second year in a row. Talk about a seismic shift in the footballing landscape!
So, who made the cut this year? Let’s break it down. The 2024 FIFPro Men’s World XI, voted on by players, features some familiar faces and a few surprises. Kylian Mbappé, despite struggling to find his usual form this year, headlines the forward line alongside Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and Manchester City’s goal machine, Erling Haaland. Haaland, who has been nothing short of sensational, is joined by three of his Manchester City teammates: Kevin De Bruyne, goalkeeper Éderson, and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. That’s a serious flex for the reigning Premier League champions.
Rounding out the lineup are Liverpool’s defensive rock Virgil van Dijk and a quartet of Real Madrid stars: Jude Bellingham, Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal, and the recently retired Toni Kroos. Bellingham, in particular, has been a revelation this year, cementing his place as one of the best midfielders in the world. England fans, take a bow—this kid is the real deal.
The Big Absences: Messi, Ronaldo, and Salah
Now, let’s talk about the absentees. Messi’s exclusion is undoubtedly the headline-grabber. The Argentine legend, who now plies his trade with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, had been a lock for the World XI for nearly two decades. But 2024 marks the end of that incredible streak. Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, also misses out, as does Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, despite his impressive goalscoring form. It’s worth noting that Messi and Ronaldo were the only nominees playing outside of Europe, which might have played a role in their omission.
For Messi fans, this might feel like a bitter pill to swallow, especially after he was recently crowned MLS MVP. But let’s not forget—this is a player who has won everything there is to win in football. Missing out on the World XI doesn’t erase his legacy; it simply signals a changing of the guard.
Real Madrid and Manchester City Dominate
If there’s one takeaway from this year’s World XI, it’s the dominance of Real Madrid and Manchester City. Between them, they account for eight of the 11 spots. Real Madrid’s representation includes Bellingham, Rüdiger, Carvajal, and Kroos, while Manchester City boasts Haaland, De Bruyne, Éderson, and Rodri. It’s a testament to the strength of these two clubs, both of which have been powerhouses in European football for years.
Here’s a quick look at the full lineup:
- Forwards: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Erling Haaland
- Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri
- Defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal
- Goalkeeper: Éderson
What Does This Mean for Football’s Future?
The 2024 FIFPro World XI feels like a passing of the torch. For years, Messi and Ronaldo were the faces of football, dominating headlines and breaking records. But as they step back, a new generation is stepping up. Players like Haaland, Bellingham, and Mbappé are not just the future—they’re the present. And with talents like these, the beautiful game is in good hands.
Still, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of nostalgia. Messi and Ronaldo have given us so many unforgettable moments, from El Clásico battles to World Cup heroics. Their absence from the World XI is a reminder that even the greatest careers must eventually wind down. But if this year’s lineup is any indication, the next chapter of football promises to be just as thrilling.
So, what do you think? Did the voters get it right, or were Messi and Ronaldo snubbed? And who’s your pick for the best player in the world right now? Let us know in the comments!
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
