So, what do we make all of this? Here we have the 2024 FIFPRO Men's World 11. And yes, you might have to check that lust twice. Maybe even a third time. For the first time since 2006, there is no room for a certain Argentine. Seriously, read it again, Lionel Messi isn't there.
That is, of course, expected in some ways. And let's face it, the guy is 37 and plays in a weaker league these days. But he seems such a key part of the landscape of modern football. It's just weird that he's not there.
But, eras end. There are four debutants here, and a total of six nominees who have never made a list. There are also a handful of welcome returns. Change is strange, but it's also good. Scrutinize things, and this squad does seem a little weaker than years past - especially at the back.
To scrutinize those things, though, is to miss the point. This sport has a wave of interesting new talents coming through, which means the old ones eventually have to go. Jarring? Sure. Necessary? Absolutely. The 2024 FIFPRO World 11 is a transitional squad. And it absolutely has to be.