Cole Palmer: "Best feeling" to be chosen for World 11 by fellow players
Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer described it as a great honour and the best feeling to be selected for the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 by fellow professional players. More than 20,000 footballers from 68 nations participated in the vote for their team of the year.
Players decide the winners
The uniqueness of the World 11 lies in its selection process. Unlike other football awards decided by journalists, coaches, or fans, the recognition here comes directly from players themselves.
"Being part of the FIFPRO World 11 is obviously a great honour and to be voted by the other players is a nice feeling," said Palmer. "They know what it takes to perform at a high level, so being chosen by them is the best feeling."
Performance and recognition
Professional footballers cast their votes based on performances from 15 July 2024 to 3 August 2025. During this period, Palmer shone for Chelsea, contributing to victories in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, where he was also named the tournament’s best player.
New generation of stars
Palmer joined five other debutants in the 2025 Men’s World 11: Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Ousmane Dembele. Their inclusion signals the rise of a fresh generation in world football.
When asked which emerging talent could feature in future World 11 teams, Palmer answered: "Estevao."
Author’s summary
Cole Palmer’s inclusion in the World 11 marks both personal achievement and the recognition of a new wave of football talent chosen by peers themselves.