As every year, the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) has revealed the list of players shortlisted for the World XI of the Year.

The 2025 edition promises to be a great battle between established legends and new football stars. Two African footballers are among the nominees: PSG's Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi and Liverpool's Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah.

The final eleven will be revealed on November 3rd, following a vote by thousands of footballers around the world.

In the 2024 edition, the national team had chosen Emiliano Martinez in goal, behind a defense composed of Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, Ruben Dias, and William Saliba. In midfield, Rodri, Bellingham, and Kroos shone, while the attacking trio of Haaland, Vinicius, and Lamine Yamal dominated.

For this new edition, competition promises to be fierce in all positions:

Goalkeepers: Three big names are vying for the spot: Alisson Becker (Liverpool), Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) and Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain).

Defense: Seven players are hoping to feature in the defensive quartet: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool/Real Madrid), Pau Cubarsí (FC Barcelona), Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos and Nuno Mendes (all PSG), William Saliba (Arsenal) and Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool).

Midfield: Creativity will be in the spotlight with Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/Napoli), Luka Modric (Real Madrid/AC Milan), João Neves (PSG), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Pedri (Barça), Federico Valverde (Real Madrid) and Vitinha (PSG).

Attack: The battle promises to be fiercely contested. Eight stars are vying for three spots, including the legendary Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr). They will face Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé (PSG), Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona).