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FIFPRO has confirmed the nominees for the 2024 World 11 rivals Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo included while Ademola Lookman and Osimhen miss out.
Two of Nigeria’s biggest football stars, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, have been unexpectedly excluded from the 2024 FIFPRO Men's World 11 shortlist, raising questions about recognition for African players.
The 26-man shortlist revealed on Monday afternoon features prominent players like Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, and Toni Kroos, but notably lacks Osimhen and Lookman.
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14:25 - 02.12.2024
‘It was a penalty’ - Osimhen cries out after being robbed of a spot kick by the referee
Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen claimed he was supposed to get a penalty against Eyüpspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
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13:30 - 30.11.2024
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Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has praised Ademola Lookman for his significant contribution to the club’s impressive form.
Osimhen, a standout performer for Napoli in Serie A, has taken his incredible talent to the Turkish Super Lig where he has won the hearts of Galatasaray fans after a blistering start to life in Turkey.
His compatriot Lookman has also impressed with Atalanta, who he led to a historic UEFA Europa League win against Bayer Leverkusen, becoming the first player to score a hattrick in a UEFA major final.
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The 27-year-old also proved key as Nigeria’s Super Eagles made it to the final of the 2023 AFCON, where he netted three goals.
However, despite the fact both players looked strong contenders for the prestigious award, they have been overlooked.
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The World 11 selection involves a unique process where nearly 28,000 professional players worldwide vote on performances from December 2023 to August 2024.
The final lineup will include one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards, with the remaining outfield player chosen by vote.
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While global icons like Messi, also nominated for FIFA The Best, and Ronaldo continue to dominate, emerging talents face significant challenges in gaining international acknowledgement.
Despite this year's setback, Osimhen and Lookman remain promising talents. Their continued exceptional performances could position them for future nominations and accolades.
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The final World 11 team will be announced at The Best FIFA Football Awards on 9 December, with football fans worldwide anticipating the results.
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