Chelsea have a strong connection to the 2026 FIFPRO Men's World 11 shortlist, with several familiar names included among the finalists for football's prestigious team of the year.
The list features some of the biggest names in world football, including Ballon d'Or winner Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Michael Olise and Declan Rice. Those two former Chelsea academy players who have gone on to establish themselves elsewhere, although the focus here is on the three nominees with direct Chelsea connections.
The Blues have three direct links to the nominations, with Marc Cucurella, Enzo Fernandez and Emiliano Martinez all featuring on the list. While Martinez is currently at Chelsea, he will likely earn his place for exploits with Aston Villa’s Europa League campaign and going to the World Cup final with Argentina.
That run will also have got the attention of Chelsea’s former midfielder. Enzo Fernandez deserves recognition, having continued to demonstrate his importance at the highest level. The Argentine midfielder's technical ability, work rate and influence in possession have made him an important figure, and his place among the finalists reflects his standing in the game.
Cucurella's inclusion is particularly pleasing for the club, with the Spanish international continuing to establish himself as one of the most reliable left-backs in European football. His nomination alongside some of the world's leading defenders is another recognition of the progress he has made during his tenure in west London.
The FIFPRO Men's World 11 are annual awards depicting the most outstanding footballers in the current game, voted by the players, for the players.
The other nominees
There is plenty of competition, though, with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Pedri and Bruno Fernandes also nominated in midfield. Meanwhile, Cucurella faces an impressive defensive shortlist featuring Virgil van Dijk, Achraf Hakimi and William Saliba.
The nominations are not a guarantee of a place in the final World 11, but having three players with Chelsea connections represented is something worth celebrating. It also highlights the individual quality within the club's wider squad and the calibre of players who have been associated with Stamford Bridge.
For Chelsea supporters, Cucurella and Fernandez will be the names to watch when the final team is announced. Seeing either of them make the XI would be a deserved reward for their performances, not in blue but for their international colours, while Martinez's inclusion adds a known name and current Chelsea link to the shortlist.
Add us as a preferred source on Google