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 team-up is only slated for the end of Phase 6, with Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). Who will answer the call? Let's examine the likely candidates for Phase 6's Avengers roster.
The Next Generation of Avengers
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Wong: In the absence of Stark and Rogers, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure, appearing in numerous post-Endgame projects. Having inherited the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, his proactive defense of Earth positions him as a key figure in the reassembled Avengers.
Shang-Chi: Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender, especially considering his summons by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. His mastery of the Ten Rings and the unresolved mysteries surrounding them suggest a significant role in Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange: While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains invaluable. His current involvement in another universe with Clea hints at a future contribution to the Avengers' battle against Doctor Doom.
Captain America (Sam Wilson): Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, is poised to be a crucial leader. Captain America: Brave New World suggests his evolution into a team leader, though his struggle to live up to Steve Rogers' legacy will likely be explored further.
War Machine: Don Cheadle's War Machine is set 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, already showcasing her intellect and technological prowess in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, is primed to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her expertise will be crucial against powerful foes.
Spider-Man: Tom Holland's Spider-Man, despite his efforts to remain anonymous, is likely to feature prominently. The mystery surrounding his lost identity and Wong's potential knowledge of it could bring him back into the fold.
She-Hulk: While Hulk may take a supporting role, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk emerges as a powerful addition, combining intellect, strength, and a unique personality.
The Marvels: Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, having formed their own team, are expected to play significant roles, with Captain Marvel potentially leading the new Avengers.
Hawkeye & Kate Bishop: While Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye may be semi-retired, his potential return and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop's emergence suggest a continued archery presence on the team.
Thor: As one of the few remaining original Avengers, Thor's continued involvement is highly probable, potentially bringing his daughter Love into the fray. The Thor Corps from the Secret Wars comics could also play a role.
The Ant-Man Family: Given Quantumania's introduction of Kang, Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature are likely to remain important, especially considering the Quantum Realm's significance.
Star-Lord: Peter Quill's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential involvement with the Avengers.
Black Panther (Shuri): With Shuri now wielding the mantle of Black Panther, Wakanda's technological and resource advantages will likely remain crucial to the Avengers.
Leadership and Team Size
The sheer number of potential Avengers raises questions about team dynamics and size. The MCU might adopt a model similar to the comics, featuring multiple teams or smaller task forces.
Who should lead the new Avengers team? Vote in our poll below!
Note: This article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
