Shaw among big names to miss out on FifPro World XI

Manchester City forward Khadija Shaw, who finished third in the Ballon d’Or, is among several high-profile players omitted from the FifPro Women’s World XI shortlist. The exclusions have prompted debate because five of the Ballon d’Or’s top 10 finishers missed out, while England players Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly and Aggie Beever-Jones were included.

A total of 6,511 women footballers from 64 countries voted for the 26-player shortlist, based on performances between 4 August 2025 and 16 August 2026; players needed at least 20 appearances to qualify. Shaw scored 21 goals in 22 games as City’s top scorer during a league and FA Cup double, while other notable omissions include Temwa Chawinga, Melchie Dumornay, Caroline Graham Hansen, Pernille Harder, Lauren Hemp and Lauren James. The final XI will be announced on 9 November and comprises one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, three forwards and the next highest-voted outfield player.