In 2014, FIFA had to deal with the embarrassment of the FIFPro World XI being leaked online well before it was officially announced at the Ballon d'Or Gala. Although it isn't the biggest blunder FIFA have suffered in the ensuing years, it appears the days of Ballon d'Or leaks are over.
They have managed to keep it a secret going into Monday evening's event, but one name has managed to escape the confines of that golden envelope, at least if football website Goal are to be believed.
That man is Paul Pogba.
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Goal claim they have been told by Juventus sources that the French midfielder is already on his way to Zurich to pick up his award. Each member of the made-up team is given a trophy and gets some treasured stage time as well. They also have the perfect excuse to wear an outrageous tuxedo.
It would be Pogba's first appearance in the FIFPro World XI but would not come as a surprise to many. The 22-year-old had a magnificent season with Juventus in 2014/15, inspiring the Serie A outfit to their fourth consecutive Scudetto, a Coppa Italia triumph, as well as a Champions League final.
Moving on up
While he is already considered one of the best midfielders in Europe, the confirmation of his inclusion will be seen as further evidence that he is heading to the very top of the game. Indeed, many have tipped him to be picking up the main prize at the same event in the coming years.
The FIFPro World XI is voted for by the world's 65,000 professional players that are represented by the FIFPro organisation. Each player is awarded a vote with the final formation being 4-3-3.
Last year's team
Manuel Neuer; Sergio Ramos, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Toni Kroos, Angel di Maria; Arjen Robben, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo
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