Bronze sets World 11 record as Messi returns for 18th selection

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Lucy Bronze’s ninth appearance in the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 set a new record as the 2026 teams were revealed on Monday, 9 November. Lionel Messi returned to the men’s side, extending his record to 18 appearances in the players’ annual selections.

Bronze is one of five England internationals in the women’s team. Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton joins her club team-mate, alongside Manchester City defender Alex Greenwood, Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone and Arsenal forward Alessia Russo.

The other six places went to Mapi León, Irene Paredes, Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, Barbra Banda and Clàudia Pina. Zambia’s Banda is the only selected player who represents a country other than England or Spain. Paredes, first selected in 2017, also returns to the side.

Messi’s inclusion is his first since 2023. He forms the men’s forward line with Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona teenager has now been selected twice before his 20th birthday, a first for the award.

David Raya is the men’s goalkeeper, with Pau Cubarsí, Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes named in defence. Jude Bellingham, Rodri and Vitinha complete the midfield. The teams recognise performances over the assessment period, with professional players casting the votes rather than a media panel or public poll.

FIFPRO said 26,317 footballers from 75 countries took part across the two awards. The men’s assessment covered 4 August 2025 to 19 July 2026 and required at least 30 official appearances. The women’s window ran from 4 August 2025 to 16 August 2026, with a minimum of 20 appearances.

Voters chose three players in each positional category. The leading goalkeeper and three players from each outfield category were selected, with the final place going to the remaining outfield player who received the most votes.

Sources

• FIFPRO: Official 2026 teams and voting rules
• Reuters via Devdiscourse: Bronze and Messi extend selection records (2026-11-09)
• England Football: Five Lionesses selected
• MLS: Messi’s 18th selection and the complete men’s team