26 names defining the future of women’s football
In a world where women’s football is evolving at an incredible pace, there are moments that capture the attention of the entire sporting community. One of them is the announcement of the finalists for the FIFPRO Women’s World 11, a unique award decided not by journalists or sponsors, but by the players themselves.
It’s the voice from the locker room, from the pitch, from the very heart of football.
A voice of women, about women.
A vote that truly belongs to the players
Unlike most football awards, the Women’s World 11 is created entirely by players.
This year, more than 60,000 professional footballers from around the world cast their votes, selecting one goalkeeper, four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards, in the classic 4-3-3 formation.
That’s why the Women’s World 11 is considered the most prestigious recognition in women’s football.
It’s not about media exposure, it’s about respect from your peers.
Voting timeline
Player evaluation period: August 11, 2024 – August 3, 2025
Voting opens: August 18, 2025
Finalist list announced: October 27, 2025
World 11 revealed: November 3, 2025, 14:00 CET, during the FIFA The Best gala
The Elite of Women’s Football – 26 Finalists for 2025
Goalkeepers
Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC / Germany)
Mary Earps (Paris Saint-Germain / England)
Hannah Hampton (Chelsea / England)
Defenders
Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash / Nigeria)
Ona Batlle (FC Barcelona / Spain)
Millie Bright (Chelsea / England)
Lucy Bronze (Chelsea / England)
Olga Carmona (Paris Saint-Germain / Spain)
Ellie Carpenter (Olympique Lyon / Australia)
Alex Greenwood (Manchester City / England)
Leah Williamson (Arsenal / England)
Midfielders
Aitana Bonmatí (FC Barcelona / Spain)
Ghizlane Chebbak (Al Hilal / Morocco)
Debinha (Kansas City Current / Brazil)
Patricia Guijarro (FC Barcelona / Spain)
Vicky López (FC Barcelona / Spain)
Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona / Spain)
Ella Toone (Manchester United / England)
Keira Walsh (Chelsea / England)
Forwards
Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal / England)
Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride / Zambia)
Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid / Colombia)
Athenea del Castillo (Real Madrid / Spain)
Chloe Kelly (Arsenal / England)
Marta (Orlando Pride / Brazil)
Alessia Russo (Arsenal / England)
Spain vs. England – Clash of the Powerhouses
This year’s finalist list reveals a clear balance of power.
Spain and England have become the two strongest forces in women’s football, both at national and club levels.
FC Barcelona once again dominates, with five players among the best, led by Aitana Bonmatí, World Champion and 2023 Ballon d’Or winner.
England, with nine representatives, confirms the strength of the Women’s Super League, one of the most organized and fastest-growing leagues in the world.
Also noteworthy is the return of legends: Brazil’s Marta, an icon for generations, is once again among the nominees, proving that class and passion are timeless.
Why this award matters
At a time when women’s football continues to fight for equality, the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 holds not only sporting but also symbolic importance.
It sends a clear message:
“Your voice matters.”
For many players, often facing lower wages, fewer resources, and less media attention, such recognition means more than just a title.
It’s proof of value, respect, and belonging to the global elite.
An award that can change a career
Being named to the World 11 opens doors to new contracts, sponsorships, and global recognition.
Past winners have become ambassadors for sports brands, faces of social campaigns, and inspirations for young girls around the world.
Some like Bonmatí or Putellas, have grown into international icons.
Others like Banda or Caicedo, represent a new wave of football: diverse, energetic, and fearless.
More than an award
The FIFPRO Women’s World 11 is more than just a list of names.
It’s a map of the future of women’s football, filled with talent, determination, and inspiring stories.
On November 3, 2025, we will discover the eleven players who will form the dream team, a symbol of strength, ambition, and solidarity among women in sport.
But no matter who makes the final lineup, the true winner will be the entire movement standing behind this idea.
