
So, FIFPRO launched the World 11, a unique project which allowed professional footballers to decide which players they think are the best in their position.
To allow all players' voices to be heard, FIFPRO sent out thousands of voting ballots to its affiliated player associations around the globe. The unions visited the footballers in their country to collect their votes.
The 2004/2005 World 11
The first World 11 was dominated by AC Milan players, who had just won the UEFA Champions League. Five players of the Italian team were selected by their peers: Dida, Cafu, Alessandro Nesta, Paolo Maldini and Andriy Shevchenko.
Goalkeeper: | Dida | |||
Defenders: | Cafu | Alessandro Nesta | John Terry | Paolo Maldini |
Midfielders: | Claude Makelele | Zinedine Zidane | Frank Lampard | |
Forwards: | Samuel Eto’o | Andriy Shevchenko | Ronaldinho |

FIFPRO representatives visited the World 11 players at their club or with their national team to present them with their well deserved awards.
List of 55
FIFPRO also started its tradition to publish the List of 55 Players who received the most votes. And yes, in 2005, Cristiano Ronaldo (20) was already on that list...

