England's Lucy Bronze Makes Record Eighth FIFPRO Women's World XI Appearance

Lucy Bronze has made history by becoming the first player to be named in the FIFPRO Women's World XI for a record eighth time, surpassing France's Wendie Renard. This year's team features six England players, including debutants goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and forward Chloe Kelly, alongside established stars Leah Williamson, Alessia Russo, and Millie Bright. Bronze, a Chelsea defender, has had a distinguished career with club stints across Sunderland, Lyon, Barcelona, and now Chelsea, and has been pivotal in England's recent successes, including the 2022 European Championship and reaching the 2023 World Cup final. The FIFPRO World XI, voted exclusively by over 26,000 professional footballers worldwide, also highlighted Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal as the youngest ever men's XI selectee at 18, breaking Kylian Mbappe's previous record. The men's team is dominated by Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League-winning squad, while notable English men's players Cole Palmer and Jude Bellingham were also included. These selections underscore the growing influence and recognition of English football on the global stage, particularly in women's football where England leads in representation for the 2024-25 team.