The FifPro Women’s World XI shortlist has ignited debate across women’s football after several prominent players failed to make the 26-player cut, with Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw among the notable absentees from the prestigious selection.
Shaw’s omission stands out particularly given her recent achievements. The Jamaican forward finished third in the Ballon d’Or, a recognition of her exceptional performances with the English champions. Yet despite this individual accolade, she did not secure a place on the shortlist for one of women’s football’s most coveted annual honours.
The Selection Process
The FifPro Women’s World XI shortlist features a mix of established stars and rising talents from across global football. The 26-player list includes forwards Temwa Chawinga, Melchie Dumornay, Pernille Harder, Ada Hegerberg, and Lauren James, alongside Manchester City teammates Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly. Defender Caroline Graham Hansen and midfielder Ella Toone also made the cut, as did striker Aggie Beever-Jones.
The inclusion of several attacking players while excluding Shaw—one of Manchester City’s primary goal threats—has raised eyebrows within the women’s football community. Her absence marks a significant decision in the voting process, particularly given her consistent contributions to the WSL champions’ attacking threat this season.
Broader Implications
The shortlist represents voters’ selections from across the women’s game, reflecting a complex decision-making process that does not always align with individual accolades or domestic league performance. Shaw’s third-place Ballon d’Or finish suggests significant recognition of her quality at the highest level, yet the FifPro shortlist tells a different story about how different recognition systems evaluate player contributions.