Alex Morgan surprisingly makes elite FIFPRO World XI shortlist - along with just one other USWNT teammate - despite scoring only seven goals in 2023

The nominees for FIFA's 2023 FIFPRO Women's World XI has been announced with only Morgan and Naeher from the United States making the cut. The list is dominated by England and Spain players after the two teams made it to the 2023 World Cup final in Australia and New Zealand. In contrast, the Stars and Stripes had a poor tournament and were knocked out in the last 16 by Sweden, making it the team's worst ever World Cup finish.

Morgan is perhaps a surprise inclusion after only managing seven goals in 2023. The US duo are joined on the 23-player shortlist by some huge names, including Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati, her compatriot Jenni Hermoso and Chelsea striker Sam Kerr. England stars Mary Earps, Lauren James and Alessio Russo are among eight Lionesses nominated.

The World XI is the only global football award decided exclusively by professional players, with over 6,000 women's footballers casting their votes based on performances between August 1, 2022 and August 20, 2023. The final XI will include the goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards who received the most votes. The final spot in the team will be assigned to the remaining outfield player with the next highest number of votes.

FIFA and FIFPRO will announce the World XI on Monday, January 15 at The Best FIFA Football Awards in London. Meanwhile, the USWNT will begin a new era in the summer when current Chelsea boss Emma Hayes takes over a coach.