During the 2006/2007 season, both Ronaldo (22) and Messi (20) became star players at their clubs, Manchester United and Barcelona respectively.
However, they were not the biggest stars just yet, as two Brazilian players were still ahead in the World 11 voting: Kaka and Ronaldinho.
Messi received the World 11 award together with two of his teammates, Ronaldinho and Carles Puyol.
Goalkeeper: | Gianluigi Buffon | |||
Defenders: | Carles Puyol | John Terry | Fabio Cannavaro | Alessandro Nesta |
Midfielders: | Steven Gerrard | Kaka | Cristiano Ronaldo | |
Forwards: | Ronaldinho | Didier Drogba | Lionel Messi |
In the history of World 11 (until 2019), only two African players managed to become part of this unique team. In 2006, Samuel Eto'o was chosen. In 2007, it was Didier Drogba's turn.
The List of 55
Two midfielders made their first appearance on the List of 55 Most Voted Players: Xavi and Andres Iniesta. Both Spain and Barcelona midfielders would receive multiple World 11 awards later on: Xavi was picked six times, Iniesta on nine occasions.