Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak nominated for 2026 FIFPRO Women’s World 11

Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak has been named among the 26 finalists for the 2026 FIFPRO Women’s World 11, giving the Atlas Lionesses midfielder an opportunity to secure a place in the prestigious team for a second consecutive year.

The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) announced the shortlist on Monday, featuring players who received the highest number of votes from their fellow professionals for their performances over the past season.

Chebbak is one of seven midfielders competing for a place in the final team, alongside Barcelona quartet Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Patri Guijarro and Vicky Lopez, Manchester United’s Ella Toone and Paris FC’s Anaele Le Moguedec.

The Moroccan’s nomination follows another significant period in her career, which included representing her country at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and playing for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

The 36-year-old returned to Moroccan club AS FAR in September after spending a season in Saudi Arabia.

Chebbak targets historic second consecutive selection

The nomination presents Chebbak with another opportunity to strengthen her place among the world’s leading female footballers.

In 2025, she became the first Moroccan woman to earn selection in the FIFPRO Women’s World 11, making history for her country.

She was joined in the team by Zambia’s Barbra Banda, marking the first occasion two African players featured together in the prestigious lineup.

Chebbak’s achievements also included winning the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award following her impressive performances for club and country.

The Moroccan international has played an important role in the growth of women’s football in the Kingdom, helping the Atlas Lionesses establish themselves among Africa’s competitive national teams.

She has also demonstrated her goalscoring quality on the continental stage, finishing as the leading scorer at the 2022 and 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

FIFPRO to announce final team on November 9

According to FIFPRO, a total of 6,511 professional female footballers from 64 countries participated in this year’s voting process.

The shortlisted players were assessed on their performances between August 4, 2025, and August 16, 2026, with candidates required to have made at least 20 official appearances during that period.

The final selection will consist of one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards, with the remaining position going to the highest-ranked outfield player who has not already been selected.

FIFPRO is scheduled to announce the final team on November 9 through its official digital platforms.

Chebbak is not the only Moroccan footballer represented among this year’s finalists, with Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi also included in the men’s shortlist.