In a stunning revelation that's sent shockwaves through English football, FIFA's prestigious World XI has delivered a brutal verdict on the Premier League's global standing, with just three players from English clubs making the elite squad.
The Premier League's Meagre Representation
The highly anticipated FIFPRO World XI, voted for by professional footballers worldwide, features a mere trio of stars currently plying their trade in England's top flight. Manchester City's goal machine Erling Haaland and creative force Kevin De Bruyne join Manchester United's emerging talent Rasmus Hojlund as the sole representatives from what many consider the world's most competitive league.
Spanish Domination Continues
In stark contrast, Spanish football has reinforced its dominance with Real Madrid and Barcelona players comprising the majority of the World XI. The selection sees eight of the eleven spots filled by stars from Spain's top clubs, highlighting La Liga's continued appeal to the world's elite talent.
England's International Stars Shine
While Premier League representation may be thin, English talent remains highly valued on the global stage. Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka, and Bayern Munich's Harry Kane all earned their places in the dream team, proving that English players are among the world's best, even if they're not playing in their home country.
The Complete World XI Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
- Defenders: Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
- Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Rodri (Manchester City)
- Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
The selection has sparked intense debate among football pundits and fans alike, with many questioning whether the Premier League's reputation as the world's best league is truly justified when its representation in global awards remains so limited.
