Virgil van Dijk is among the 26 finalists for the 2026 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, Liverpool FC announced. The Netherlands defender’s inclusion confirms his place on the shortlist, rather than selection in the final team.
The period and electorate
Liverpool’s explanation places club and international performances from 4 August 2025 to 19 July 2026 within the assessment period. It is therefore broader than a judgement on the opening weeks of the current season.
FIFPRO’s men’s award article reports 19,806 voters from 73 countries. Candidates needed at least 30 official appearances during the relevant period. The electorate figure measures participation in the vote, whereas the match minimum concerns eligibility for consideration.
Competition within the defensive group
FIFPRO’s overall finalist announcement lists eight defenders, including Van Dijk, Gabriel, William Saliba, Achraf Hakimi and Dayot Upamecano. Appearing together does not disclose a ranking between them or establish which will make the final side.
As Liverpool outlines, the selection starts with the highest-polling goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. The remaining place goes to the next outfield player with the most votes. The 26-name shortlist is consequently a different stage from the eventual 11-player team.
The next milestone is the 9 November reveal on FIFPRO’s digital platforms. Only that announcement can confirm whether Van Dijk progresses from finalist to a place in the team. Until then, the established development is his inclusion among the 26 players recognised through the professional-player vote.