Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo and Michelle Agyemang have been shortlisted for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World 11.

Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo and Michelle Agyemang have been shortlisted for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World 11.

Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, and Michelle Agyemang have been named among the finalists for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World 11, a recognition that places them among the best female footballers on the planet. This nomination reflects not only their exceptional performances throughout the 2024/25 season but also their influence in shaping the current era of women’s football.

What makes the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 particularly prestigious is that it is the only global football award determined entirely by professional players themselves. Over 26,000 footballers from across the world cast their votes each year, selecting those they believe represent the best in each position. To be shortlisted is, therefore, a sign of deep respect from peers—an acknowledgment from those who truly understand the demands and sacrifices of the game.

A Season of Unmatched Success

For Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, and Alessia Russo, this recognition crowns what has been an unforgettable year. The trio were crucial members of Arsenal’s triumphant run in the 2024/25 UEFA Women’s Champions League, where their teamwork, resilience, and leadership led the club to European glory. Each of them brought a unique influence to that historic campaign.

Williamson, the ever-composed captain, was the backbone of the defense—her ability to read the game, organize her teammates, and initiate attacks from the back was instrumental. Kelly, known for her electric pace and relentless energy, delivered crucial assists and goals during the knockout rounds, demonstrating her trademark flair on the biggest stage. Meanwhile, Russo’s clinical finishing and off-the-ball movement made her one of Europe’s most feared forwards, ensuring Arsenal maintained a cutting edge throughout the competition.

Their success, however, didn’t stop at club level. Riding on their European triumph, the three stars carried that momentum into the international stage, helping England’s Lionesses achieve a historic back-to-back European Championship victory at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. It was a campaign defined by unity, belief, and excellence—qualities embodied by these three players.

England’s Golden Summer

At the Euros, England showcased resilience and composure throughout the tournament. Under the leadership of Williamson, the team maintained defensive solidity while also expressing fluid, attacking football. Kelly once again demonstrated her knack for delivering in high-pressure moments—her decisive penalty in the final against Spain sealed England’s second consecutive European crown, sparking wild celebrations and cementing her place as one of the nation’s most clutch performers.

Russo, for her part, continued to impress with her tireless work rate and intelligent play. Her link-up with Kelly and Lauren James became one of England’s most potent attacking weapons, often breaking down even the most organized defenses.

The Rise of Michelle Agyemang

While Williamson, Kelly, and Russo have long been recognized as elite performers, Michelle Agyemang’s inclusion on the shortlist highlights the emergence of a new generation of English talent. Still only a teenager, Agyemang’s performances at Euro 2025 captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike.

Throughout the tournament, she played beyond her years—showing fearlessness, creativity, and composure in crucial moments. She scored multiple equalisers in the knockout stages, each time keeping England’s hopes alive. Her maturity, decision-making, and technical quality stood out, earning her the Young Player of the Tournament award. It was a breakthrough moment that firmly announced her arrival on the world stage.

Agyemang’s nomination for the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 is particularly significant because it reflects how quickly she has transitioned from a promising prospect to a major player. Her rise underscores England’s growing depth and the strong developmental systems now in place to nurture young female talent.

Individual Glory and Team Success

Beyond international accolades, Alessia Russo also shone in domestic competition. She shared the Barclays Women’s Super League Golden Boot with Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw, both scoring 12 goals during the 2024/25 season. Russo’s consistency, poise under pressure, and ability to perform against top opposition have solidified her reputation as one of the best forwards in the women’s game.

Kelly, too, enjoyed a brilliant league campaign, contributing a blend of assists and goals that highlighted her creative influence from the flanks. Meanwhile, Williamson’s leadership both on and off the pitch continued to inspire teammates and fans alike, particularly as she returned from injury stronger and more determined than ever.

The Power of Peer Recognition

Being shortlisted for the FIFPRO Women’s World 11 is not merely about statistics or trophies—it is about respect. When players vote for their peers, they recognize not only talent but also attitude, sportsmanship, and consistency. For Williamson, Kelly, Russo, and Agyemang, the nomination symbolizes recognition from the global football community for their contributions to the game’s continued growth.

These four players represent different stages of their careers but share a common drive: a desire to elevate women’s football. Williamson, as captain of both Arsenal and England, has become a symbol of leadership and advocacy, promoting equality and inspiring young girls to pursue the sport. Kelly embodies determination and flair, known for her fearless approach and ability to deliver in defining moments. Russo represents the modern striker—technically gifted, powerful, and tactically sharp—while Agyemang stands as proof that the future of English football is in safe hands.

A Reflection of a New Era

Their collective success illustrates the golden era of English women’s football. Not long ago, such dominance—both domestically and internationally—seemed a distant dream. Today, England’s Lionesses are not only winning titles but also shaping global football narratives. The fact that four English players have been shortlisted for the FIFPRO World 11 is a reflection of that transformation.

Moreover, their impact extends beyond the pitch. They are role models who use their platforms to promote inclusion, equality, and mental health awareness. Their dedication, professionalism, and humility continue to inspire millions of fans worldwide.

Conclusion

In essence, the nominations of Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, and Michelle Agyemang for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World 11 celebrate more than individual excellence—they represent a collective triumph for English football and women’s sport as a whole. These athletes have demonstrated that success is built not just on talent but on resilience, teamwork, and a deep love for the game.

As footballers around the world cast their votes, one thing is clear: this quartet has not only earned their place among the world’s best but has also helped define what greatness looks like in modern women’s football.