The 2026 FIFA World Cup may not have ended with Lionel Messi lifting another trophy, but the Barcelona legend has still received one of the competition’s biggest individual honours.
Argentina’s dream of retaining their world title was ended by Spain in the final, yet Messi’s performances throughout the tournament ensured his influence was impossible to ignore.
His displays have now been recognised.
Lionel Messi has officially been included in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Best XI, earning his place among the standout performers from the tournament.
The legendary forward finished the competition with 8 goals, once again proving decisive on football’s biggest stage despite Argentina narrowly missing out on another title.
Beyond his goals, Messi also produced some of the tournament’s defining moments as a creator.
One of his most memorable performances came in the semi-final against England, where he registered two assists to inspire Argentina into another World Cup final.
The Barcelona icon shares the attack with Kylian Mbappe, who finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals.
Mbappe also reached another remarkable milestone by taking his overall World Cup tally to 22 goals, further cementing his place among the competition’s greatest goalscorers.
The Team of the Tournament features quality across every area of the pitch.
Vozinha (Cape Verde) was selected in goal, while the defence includes Pedro Porro (Spain), Lisandro Martínez (Argentina), Dayot Upamecano (France) and Rodri (Spain).
Joining Messi in midfield is Michael Olise (France), while Erling Haaland (Norway) completes the attacking line alongside the Argentine superstar and Mbappe.
Although Argentina ultimately fell short in the final, Messi once again demonstrated why he remains one of the defining players of his generation, adding another World Cup individual honour to an already extraordinary career.
Your FIFA Dream XI is here ⭐
Your favourite players, chosen by fans around the world. This is the FIFA Dream XI powered by @aramco#FIFAWorldCup #DreamXI
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 22, 2026
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