The MCU has undergone significant changes since Avengers: Endgame, most notably the absence of an active Avengers team. While new heroes are emerging to fill the void left by Iron Man and Captain America, a full-fledged Avengers movie remains some time away. Even Captain America: Brave New World avoids a complete reunion of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.
A proper Avengers assembly is only slated for the culmination of Phase 6, with the back-to-back releases of Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). But who will answer the call? Let's examine the likely candidates for Phase 6's Avengers roster.
The New Avengers: A Potential Lineup
Wong: In the absence of Stark and Rogers, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure, appearing across numerous post-Endgame projects. As the Sorcerer Supreme, his proactive defense of Earth positions him as a key figure in any new Avengers initiative. We've arguably entered "Phase Wong" of the MCU.
Shang-Chi: Simu Liu's Shang-Chi's inclusion is highly probable. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, coupled with Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, strongly suggests significant future plans for the character. His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset. The mid-credits scene in The Legend of the Ten Rings hints at a larger mystery potentially relevant to Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange: While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a crucial asset, bringing his expertise in magic and the multiverse. His current involvement in another universe addressing incursions, as teased in Multiverse of Madness, likely sets up a future role against Doctor Doom.
Captain America (Sam Wilson): Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has inherited the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Captain America: Brave New World depict his journey, culminating in a readiness to lead. Brave New World hints at his potential role in assembling a new, government-backed Avengers team.
War Machine: Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role, building on Secret Invasion and the upcoming Armor Wars. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit for the Avengers.
Ironheart: Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a strong contender to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and her upcoming solo series solidify her potential. Her intelligence and technological prowess will be invaluable against powerful foes.
Spider-Man: Tom Holland's Spider-Man's involvement is crucial, despite the world forgetting his identity. The possibility of Wong being the only one who remembers his secret identity adds intrigue.
She-Hulk: While Hulk may have a supporting role, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk's intelligence, strength, and personality make her an ideal addition.
The Marvels (Captain Marvel, Monica Rambeau, Kamala Khan): Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, having formed a team in The Marvels, are likely to play significant roles. Captain Marvel's leadership skills and the mysteries surrounding Monica's powers make them key players.
Hawkeye & Kate Bishop: While Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye may be retired, his potential return, along with Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop (as hinted in The Marvels), provides crucial archery skills.
Thor: Thor remains a powerful force, and his position after Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up for involvement. The Secret Wars storyline could even feature multiple Thors.
The Ant-Man Family: Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's connection to Kang, their involvement, including Wasp and Stature, is highly likely, especially considering the Quantum Realm's importance.
Star-Lord: Chris Pratt's Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a possible involvement, though his leadership style might create conflict.
Black Panther (Shuri): Letitia Wright's Shuri, as the new Black Panther, will likely continue Wakanda's support for the Avengers, alongside M'Baku.
Leadership and Roster Size
The potential roster size raises questions. The original team had six members. Could a significantly larger team function effectively? The comics have precedent for large rosters and multiple teams, a model the MCU might adopt.
Who Should Lead?
Note: This article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
