Former England captain Alan Shearer has revealed his ultimate World Cup XI. The selection, made during a Betfair campaign launch, features legendary names such as Pele and Lionel Messi.

Pele and Messi anchor a legendary attacking front

The attacking lineup is headlined by two of the most decorated players in football history: Pele and Lionel Messi. As reported by Daily Mail Sport, Pele’s inclusion recognizes his status as the only player to win three World Cups, a feat that began with his teenage emergence in 1958. Messi joins him following his 2022 triumph with Argentina in Qatar, a victory that many believe solidified his legacy.

Diego Maradona also occupies a vital role on the left side of the attack. The Argentine icon is remembered for his 1986 campaign, which included the famous "Goal of the Century" against England. Alongside the forwards, Ronaldo Nazario provides attacking midfield creativity, having secured the Golden Boot during Brazil's 2002 victory.

Brazilian icons Cafu and Roberto Carlos to dominate the flanks

Brazilian talent defines the wide positions of Shearer's dream team through Cafu and Roberto Carlos. According to the report, Cafu is the only player to have appeared in three consecutive World Cup finals, helping Brazil secure titles in 1994 and 2002. Roberto Carlos is seleected for his explosive pace and his reputation as one of the most dangerous attacking defenders in the history of the game.

A defensive core featuring Buffon, Moore, and Beckenbauer

The defensive foundaiton of the squad releis on a mix of Italian, English, and German greatness. Gianluigi Buffon takes the position of goalkeeper, bringing the experience of his 2006 World Cup-winning campaign with Italy. In central defense, Shearer has paired England's Bobby Moore, the captain of the 1966 winning side, with West Germany's Franz Beckenbauer, the man who revolutionized the sweeper role.

Zidane and Xavi to control the midfield tempo

Control of the center of the pitch is handed to Zinedine Zidane and Xavi. Zidane’s selection stems from his pivotal role in France's 1998 success, while Xavi is recognized as the engine behind Spain's 2010 championship run. Together, these two maestros represent the pinnacle of football intelligence and passing range.

The lack of clarity on the Betfair-partnered selection process

While the team is a collection of icons, several details regarding the selection remain unverified.. The report does not specify the exact methodology used by Alan Shearer and Betfair to arrive at this specific XI, leaving it unclear if the choices were purely subjective or based on specific performance metrics. Additionally, the source makes a curious claim that Lionel Messi will be "looking to add to that World Cup tally this summer," a statmeent that lacks clear context regarding which specific tournament or timeframe is being referenced.