Lionel Messi Misses Out as Jude Bellingham, Five Premier League Stars Make 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI
The 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI, an elite team made up of the best footballers from around the world, has caused quite a stir in the football world due to some notable absences and surprises. Among the most surprising omissions is the legendary Lionel Messi, who was left out of the prestigious lineup. Meanwhile, English talent Jude Bellingham, along with five Premier League stars, made the cut, further emphasizing the rising prominence of English football on the global stage.
Jude Bellingham Shines in 2024 FIFPRO World XI
Jude Bellingham’s inclusion in the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI marks a significant milestone in his young career. At just 21 years old, the Real Madrid midfielder has taken the football world by storm, showcasing exceptional maturity, skill, and leadership far beyond his years. Bellingham has been a pivotal figure for both club and country, playing a key role in Real Madrid’s success and England’s strong performances in international competitions. His dynamic playstyle, intelligence on the ball, and goal-scoring abilities make him one of the brightest talents in world football today.
Bellingham’s inclusion in the World XI is a testament to his extraordinary rise, as he continues to outshine many seasoned veterans in the sport. His exceptional form has made him a fan favorite and a central figure in the modern game.
The Premier League Dominance in the World XI
The Premier League, often regarded as the most competitive football league in the world, was well-represented in the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI. A total of five Premier League players made the squad, a reflection of the league’s growing global influence and its ability to produce world-class talents.
The first of these Premier League stars is Erling Haaland, the goal-scoring machine who has redefined the forward position since joining Manchester City. Haaland’s incredible goal-scoring record has made him one of the most feared strikers in world football. His ability to find the back of the net with consistency and ease makes him a natural fit for the World XI.
Kevin De Bruyne, another Manchester City star, also earned his place. Renowned for his vision, passing, and creativity, De Bruyne remains one of the best midfielders in the world. His ability to dictate the tempo of a game and create chances for his teammates has been instrumental in Manchester City’s success over the past few seasons.
Defensively, Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk made the cut as one of the best center-backs in world football. Van Dijk’s imposing presence, composure on the ball, and leadership at the back make him one of the most reliable defenders on the planet. His performances in the Premier League and in European competitions have earned him widespread acclaim.
Another notable Premier League inclusion is Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder has been a key figure for the Red Devils, often acting as the creative hub of the team. His ability to score goals, provide assists, and control the pace of play has been invaluable for his club.
The final Premier League player to make the World XI is Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka. The young English winger has become a standout performer for both club and country. Saka’s pace, dribbling, and maturity on the field have made him one of the most exciting talents in world football, earning him a well-deserved spot in the World XI.
The Omission of Lionel Messi
One of the most surprising aspects of the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI is the exclusion of Lionel Messi. The Argentine forward, widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, has been a fixture in such lineups for over a decade. Messi’s remarkable achievements with Barcelona, followed by his success at Paris Saint-Germain and with Argentina’s national team, had many expecting him to be part of the 2024 World XI.
However, despite leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and playing a key role in PSG’s domestic successes, Messi’s omission from this year’s squad highlights the growing level of competition in world football. While his performances in the 2023-24 season were still exceptional, the emergence of new stars like Bellingham and the dominance of players from the Premier League may have contributed to Messi missing out on this occasion.
Conclusion
The 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World XI reflects the changing landscape of world football. With Jude Bellingham emerging as one of the brightest stars and the Premier League continuing to produce top-tier talent, this year’s squad highlights the global nature of the sport and the fierce competition for spots among the world’s best. The omission of Lionel Messi, while surprising to many, is a reminder that football is always evolving, and the next generation of superstars is ready to take center stage.
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