FIFPro unveiled their Women’s World XI on Wednesday and it features three current members of the U.S. Women’s National Team and one that remains in exile.
Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan, Ali Krieger and Hope Solo headline FIFPro’s Women’s World XI, which was selected by 3,200 votes from female players worldwide. The USWNT leads the way with the four selections, while Germany and France each saw two players make the list. In addition, the team features five players from French powerhouse Olympique Lyon, including Morgan, who recently joined the club on loan.
Solo was recognized despite having not played for club or country since August, when she was dismissed from the USWNT after calling Sweden “cowards” in the wake of elimination from the Olympics.
Here’s a closer look at the full list:
GOALKEEPER: Hope Solo (USA, free agent)
DEFENDERS: Leonie Maier (Germany, FC Bayern Munich), Nilla Fischer (Sweden, VfL Wolfsburg), Wendie Renard (France, Olympique Lyonnais), Ali Krieger (USA, Orlando Pride)
MIDFIELDERS: Dzsenifer Marozsan (Germany, Olympique Lyonnais), Carli Lloyd (USA, Manchester City), Marta (Brazil, FC Rosengard)
FORWARDS: Alex Morgan (USA, Olympique Lyonnais), Ada Hegerberg (Norway, Olympique Lyonnais), Eugenie Le Sommer (France, Olympique Lyonnais)
I pretty much agree with the selections, however, I would have gone with Julie Johnston on the back line over Ali, although I am also a big fan of Ali. Julie also brings an offensive presence (when necessary) that few defenders have, and there can be situations where that would make a difference in the outcome of a match. As for Lyon’s Team, What a powerhouse!!! The 3 top forwards in the world all on one team!!! They appear to be the equivalent of Bayern Munich for the men. I would expect to see Hope Solo back in goal for the US at some time in the future. Although I did not feel that goalkeeping was the reason that the U.S. performed so poorly at the She Believes Cup.
BTW, I would like to see the U. S. Women’s Soccer League attempt to upgrade itself beyond the level of a “D” League. They need to look to the European approach to Club soccer and eliminate the concept of “placing” athletes on teams. I realize that you have to start off with parity in the League. But there comes a time when the teams need to stand on their own feet operationally, and look to achieve world status.
Dr Bill, my point on the previous post. NWSL/USSF need to modernize their game, their mls-y approach might work on paper but its holding us back. UEFA leagues/national teams are taking over if they have not done so already.