Two of Nigeria’s top football stars, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, have been omitted from the 26-player shortlist for the 2025 FIFPRO Men’s World 11, despite outstanding performances in the 2024/25 club season.
Osimhen, who scored 26 league goals for Galatasaray and helped his club secure the domestic double, had been widely tipped for inclusion. Meanwhile, Lookman, who notched 20 goals across all competitions for Atalanta, also missed the cut—an outcome which has sparked debate about the status of African players in global award selections.
Football analysts say the exclusion underscores the continued dominance of players from the most visible European leagues and the challenge African stars face in gaining recognition despite strong statistical credentials. The next round of selection will determine the final 11, to be announced on 3 November. The snubs have reignited conversations in Nigerian football circles about representation, exposure, and the need for greater visibility of home-grown talents on the world stage.
