FIFPRO has officially unveiled its 26-man shortlist for the 2024 World XI, a prestigious recognition of the best footballers across the globe. However, the list has sparked considerable discussion and disappointment, especially among African football fans, as no African players have made the cut, despite some notable performances in the past year. This includes the absence of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, who has been one of the standout players in European football.
Lookman, who finished 14th in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings, was widely considered a strong contender for a spot in the World XI, especially with his impressive performances in Serie A with Atalanta. His contributions on the field have made him a favorite for the 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year award, yet his omission from FIFPRO’s prestigious list has raised eyebrows. Fans of African football, as well as pundits, were hoping to see the Nigerian forward included in the shortlist given his form and impact both domestically and internationally.
FIFPRO’s World XI list, which was announced via social media, includes three goalkeepers, seven defenders, eight midfielders, and eight forwards, representing some of the best football talent from around the world. While many fans celebrated the inclusion of several top players, the absence of African players has stirred controversy, especially considering Lookman’s strong season. The omission highlights the challenges and criticisms that often accompany individual football awards, which are not always free from debate and controversy.
Individual awards in football are often met with strong opinions, as fans and experts alike have their own criteria for what makes a player worthy of recognition. For some, the lack of African representation in FIFPRO’s World XI highlights a long-standing issue in global football, where African players are frequently overlooked despite their immense talent and contributions to the sport. The absence of Lookman, who has enjoyed consistent success over the past year, further emphasizes these concerns.
Despite the criticism, FIFPRO’s World XI shortlist remains an influential benchmark for recognizing the best footballers in the world. The full list of nominees includes some of the biggest names in football, including top-tier players from Europe and South America. However, the absence of players like Lookman leaves room for debate about how the World XI shortlist is compiled and whether it truly reflects the global diversity of talent in modern football.
As the shortlist is debated in the lead-up to the announcement of the final World XI, the conversation surrounding the exclusion of African players is likely to continue. Lookman’s omission from the FIFPRO World XI this year has sparked a wider discussion about the visibility and recognition of African footballers at the global level. It remains to be seen whether future editions of the World XI will offer greater representation for African players who continue to make their mark on the international stage.
