Osimhen, Lookman missing from FIFPRO XI as Super Falcons heartthrob makes the cut

Two of Nigeria’s leading footballers, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, have been left out of the 26-player shortlist for the 2025 FIFPRO World XI, announced on Monday afternoon.

Voting is based on performances during the 2024/2025 campaign, and despite the numbers both players posted, they have not been included. Osimhen hit 26 league goals last season for Galatasaray, securing the Golden Boot and helping the Turkish champions to a domestic double. Lookman was a key figure at Atalanta, scoring 20 times across all competitions.

Their absence highlights the continued advantage enjoyed by footballers operating in Europe’s biggest leagues and most visible club competitions.

Michelle Alozie flying the flag as Osimhen, Lookman snubbed

Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie is the only Nigerian to make the shortlist. She was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to a record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year, scoring the winning goal in the semi-final and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament.

The Houston Dash full-back has carried that form into the NWSL season, establishing herself as a reliable presence at both ends of the pitch.

Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was nominated for the Ballon d’Or, is not included this time. Her omission comes in a category featuring established European-based names with stronger visibility across the campaign.

Elsewhere, the men’s list includes major names such as Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Vinícius Júnior and Mohamed Salah, while Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, Lucy Bronze and Barbra Banda headline the women’s selection.

The final FIFPRO World XI will be confirmed later in the season.