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FIFPro has revealed the next set of candidates for its team of the year by announcing the shortlist of 15 for the midfielders category, with Real Madrid and Juventus leading the way with the most representatives. On Thursday, the world players' union published the 20 defenders who are contenders to make the XI, with Madrid once again boasting the highest amount of players on the shortlist with five, while captain Iker Casillas was included in the goalkeeper selection. And the European champions, along with Juve, have three players chosen this time out, in Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and James Rodriguez. Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso and Manchester United's Angel Di Maria, who both played for Madrid last season, were also included. Madrid have enjoyed an impressive 2014, winning the Champions League, Copa del Rey and UEFA Super Cup, while they currently sit top of La Liga. Meanwhile, Juventus, who claimed a third straight Serie A title last season and sit top of the current table, had Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal included on the shortlist. The midfielders that may be frustrated to miss out on being recognised will include Koke and Arda Turan, who both helped guide Atletico Madrid to the La Liga title and Champions League final last season. FIFPro will publish the shortlist of forwards on Monday to complete this year's FIFA FIFPro World XI. The XI is voted for by thousands of professional footballers across the globe, each selecting one goalkeeper, four defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. The midfielder shortlist: Xabi Alonso (Spain / Bayern Munich), Angel Di Maria (Argentina / Manchester United), Cesc Fabregas (Spain / Chelsea), Eden Hazard (Belgium / Chelsea), Xavi Hernandez (Spain / Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Spain / Barcelona), Toni Kroos (Germany / Real Madrid), Luka Modric (Croatia / Real Madrid), Mesut Ozil (Germany / Arsenal), Andrea Pirlo (Italy / Juventus), Paul Pogba (France / Juventus), James Rodriguez (Colombia / Real Madrid), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany / Bayern Munich), Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast / Manchester City), Arturo Vidal (Chile / Juventus).
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