Is there a biased narrative surrounding prestigious awards that favor European players and teams over those from foreign leagues? While it’s unclear on the men’s side, there seems to be such a trend on the women’s side. The latest example of this exclusion is seen in the 2024 FIFPRO Women’s World 11 team. Notably, Ali Krieger boldly called out the ‘overlooked‘ USWNT stars, including Naomi Girma, Trinity Rodman, and others.

For context, not a single US star made the illustrious annual team, FIFA rolls out via votes from players across 70 countries. It’s based on performances from 21 August 2023 to 10 August 2024, inclusive. Both domestically and internationally, including the most recent 2024 Paris Olympics. Yet, the team only featured 8 European stars, 2 from South America, and 1 from Africa.

That indeed concerns Ali Krieger, who remains confident and at least vouches for Girma. The defender had an excellent run of form so far. “1000% Naomi Girma needs to be in this squad,” began Krieger on the latest podcast episode of ESPN’s Futbol W. “I’m sorry but that would be a direct substitute between her and [Alex] Greenwood for me personally.”

There are many standout moments for the San Diego Wave star. It includes winning the 2023 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year, US Defender of the Year, and NWSL Defender of the Year. Moreover, Krieger praised the 24-year-old for solidifying the backline of her nation. Therefore, she remained disappointed over the absence of Naomi.

While the former Gotham defender questioned whether the whole FIFPro team is ‘European heavy and European favored,’ the presence of NWSL stars Marta and Barbara Banda nullifies this agenda. Then again, it’s not just Girma; even the absence of Triple Espresso, a.k.a. the trio of Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, who altogether scored 12 goals, left Krieger bewildered.  

The pundit also backed recently retired US No. 1 Alyssa Naeher to take over Mary Earps on the FIFPro team, who had more than an incredible year. “I don’t understand how the US ranked no. 1, there also is Naomi who got 2nd ranked in the top 50 players in the world, how is she not even involved in the World XI is beyond me and that is probably the number one snub. That is definitely overlooked,” concluded Krieger.

Notably, the 3-3-3-1 formation team included Mary Earp on the sticks, with Lucy Bronze, Olga Carmona, and Alex Greenwood in the defense. Barcelona trio of Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, and Keira Walsh took the midfield with Barbra Banda, Linda Caicedo, Lauren James, and Marta taking the forward places.

While it’s depressing, neither of the USWNT stars made the place. They sure managed to garner the spotlight someplace else.

Naomi Girma and USWNT stars did shine someplace else!

The Best FIFA Women’s Team of the Year saw not one but three USWNT stars make the cut. It included Naomi Girma, Alyssa Naeher, and Lindsey Horan. Irene Paredes, Ona Batlle, and Lucy Bronze joined them, while Aitana Bonmatí, Gabi Portilho, Patri Guijarro, Caroline Graham Hansen, and Salma Paralluelo also made the prestigious XI. Many questioned the absence of Triple Espresso once again, however. The omission of Girma raised eyebrows, with some surprisingly calling out Horan’s inclusion.

However, Emma Hayes—who herself won the FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year award—subtly showed her support for the Lyon star while congratulating her players on their success. The criticism came after Horan made the 30-player Ballon d’Or nominations, with many fans advocating for Girma to take her place, especially since the defender was brutally snubbed from the same list.

Then again, coming back, the FIFPro Women’s team surely makes everyone question as to on what basis the USWNT stars were left. Do you have a clue? Sound off in the comments!