Unlucky to miss out? Who makes the alternative World XI?

"No Harry Kane or Raphinha? Six Paris St-Germain players? A Scott McTominay-less midfield? Any team of the year selection always raises debate. On Tuesday in Qatar, Fifa held The Best Awards and the Men's XI was named based on achievements between 11 August 2024 and 2 August 2025. Fifa's team was voted for by international captains, coaches and members of the media from selected nations, but of course, only 11 players can make the cut."

"So BBC Sport has created an alternative World XI of players not selected. We have opted for the same 4-4-2 formation as Fifa's Best XI and have not included any more PSG players because the European champions dominate the original team. No doubt there will still be arguments over our selection - but you can have your say on who should have been included in the comments section below."

"Liverpool's Brazilian goalkeeper proved his worth once again as the Reds claimed their 20th league title - and his second at the club. Alisson, 33, remains one of the best shot stoppers in the world and registered 10 clean sheets in 28 Premier League matches last season. Arne Slot's side came up against eventual winners PSG at the last 16 stage of the Champions League, but Alisson put in one of the best individual performances in the competition last term in the first leg victory."

"Jules Kounde has the right-back spot at Barcelona locked down, making 53 appearances for the La Liga and Copa del Rey winners in all competitions last season. The 27-year-old played a key role in Barca's run to the Champions League semi-finals, where they were dramatically beaten in Inter Milan's San Siro late on. He also featured regularly for a France side that secured World Cup qualification."

Fifa's Men's XI was named based on achievements between 11 August 2024 and 2 August 2025 and was voted for by international captains, coaches and selected media members. Only 11 players can be chosen, prompting debate over omissions such as Harry Kane, Raphinha, and a Scott McTominay-less midfield. An alternative World XI uses the same 4-4-2 formation and excludes additional PSG players to balance selections. Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson kept 10 clean sheets in 28 Premier League matches and produced a standout Champions League first-leg display against PSG. Jules Kounde made 53 appearances for Barcelona and helped France secure World Cup qualification. Gabriel has progressed into one of the Premier League's top defenders.

Read at www.bbc.com