David Raya, the Arsenal goalkeeper, has earned a spot in the 2026 FIFPRO World 11, the yearly global team voted for by professional footballers. The Evening Standard reports that 19,806 men's players across the world took part in the vote, and Raya was picked in goal. Arsenal also confirmed the selection.

Only a second Arsenal name

According to the Evening Standard, Raya is just the second Arsenal player to be included in the FIFPRO World 11 since it began in 2005. Thierry Henry was chosen in 2006, when Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o were picked among the forwards.

The honour follows Raya finishing second in the Yashin Trophy voting last month, the strongest placing of his career, with the award going to his Spain team-mate Unai Simon after the goalkeeper started every match of the World Cup-winning campaign. The Standard notes that Raya's year also took in a Premier League title with Arsenal and a run to the Champions League final under Mikel Arteta.

Raya's message

"Thank you guys for voting me in the FIFPRO World 11," Raya said. He said, "It's incredible how you guys have voted for me." He added, "Thank you very much to everyone who has chosen me to be part of this." Keep doing your thing."

The rest of the team

Only two Premier League players made the cut, with Raya among them and Erling Haaland the other.

Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes and Pau Cubarsi were named in defence, while Jude Bellingham was picked in midfield for a fourth year running alongside Rodri and Vitinha.

Arsenal's next fixture is away to Newcastle United in the Premier League on 21 November, after Saturday's 1-0 win over Hull City at the Emirates Stadium.

Photo: Arne Müseler via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 de, resized.