CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo has been named on FIFPRO’s 26-man shortlist for the 2026 men’s World XI, becoming the oldest nominee in the award’s history at 41.
Ronaldo makes the shortlist again
The Al Nassr forward turned 41 in February and last made the final FIFPRO World XI in 2021. He has now been included in the shortlist alongside Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal.
Ronaldo has made the FIFPRO team of the year 15 times, leaving him second only to Messi, who has 17 selections.
How the shortlist was chosen
According to FIFPRO, 19,806 professional players from 73 countries decided the 2026 shortlist. Players were judged on performances between 4 August 2025 and 19 July 2026, and had to play at least 30 official matches in that period.
The final World XI will be announced on Monday, 9 November.