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Planet Football has presented its symbolic XI of the world's best players in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Bayern Munich's Harry Kane leads the attack, edging out Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, while the midfield features Rodri, Vitinha, and Jude Bellingham.

Planet Football has unveiled its symbolic XI of the world's best players right now, arranged in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Notably absent from the squad is Kylian Mbappe, who has been edged out by Harry Kane at the forefront of attack.

Symbolic XI of the world's top players

  • Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid / Belgium) — The Belgian remains the most reliable and mentally strong goalkeeper globally, consistently showcasing top-level performances in crucial Champions League matches and international tournaments.
  • Right-back: Achraf Hakimi (PSG / Morocco) — Without question, the best right-back on the planet, a two-time Champions League winner with the Parisians and a key player for his national side.
  • Centre-back: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool / Netherlands) — Despite his age, the Liverpool captain maintains an elite level through his positional awareness, one-on-one defending skills, and absolute dominance in the air.
  • Centre-back: Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona / Spain) — The young La Masia product has shown incredible maturity, becoming a pivotal defender for the world champions, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament.
  • Left-back: Nuno Mendes (PSG / Portugal) — A vital component of Luis Enrique's system in Paris, combining solid defensive work with frequent attacks up the pitch.
  • Defensive midfielder: Rodri (Manchester City / Spain) — The Ballon d'Or winner and World Cup champion has returned to peak form following a serious injury.
  • Central midfielder: Vitinha (PSG / Portugal) — The orchestrator of PSG's play, dictating the tempo in key European matches in recent seasons.
  • Right winger: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain) — A World Cup champion with Spain and one of the most dangerous wide players in modern football, boasting phenomenal statistics at such a young age.
  • Attacking midfielder: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid / England) — The Englishman once again proved his status as a global superstar at the World Cup, becoming the driving force for his national team.
  • Left winger: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG / Georgia) — One of the most brilliant and unconventional dribblers in contemporary football, included for his outstanding individual performances.
  • Striker: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich / England) — The forward scored 61 goals across all competitions this season, claiming his second consecutive Golden Boot and outpacing Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe in the rankings.