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 film 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 in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. So, 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
Following Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' departure, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure in Phases 4 and 5, acting as a unifying force within the MCU. His appearances across numerous projects, including Spider-Man: No Way Home, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, solidify his importance. His comedic dynamic with Madisynn in She-Hulk further enhances his appeal.
Having inherited the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, Wong's proactive defense of the world against emerging threats positions him perfectly for a key role in the reassembled Avengers.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender for the Phase 6 Avengers. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (before directorial changes) strongly suggest significant plans for Shang-Chi's future.
His mastery of the mystical Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset, and 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 holds the Sorcerer Supreme title, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains crucial for the Avengers. His current involvement in another universe, assisting Clea with the Incursion problem, suggests a significant role in the future. The tease in Multiverse of Madness likely foreshadows his involvement in the battle against Doctor Doom.
Captain America
The Avengers need a Captain America. Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has assumed the mantle, following Chris Evans' Steve Rogers' retirement. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Captain America: Brave New World depict Sam's evolution into the role, culminating in his readiness to lead a new Avengers team. Brave New World also sets up a potential conflict with President Ross, adding another layer to his journey.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role, transitioning from a supporting character to a solo hero in the Multiverse Saga. Armor Wars, focusing on Rhodey securing Tony Stark's technology, builds upon the events of Secret Invasion, where a Skrull impersonated Rhodey. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit for the Avengers.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a prime candidate to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever showcased her intellect and technological prowess. Her solo series, Ironheart, will further establish her identity, making her a fully-fledged hero by Avengers: Doomsday.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship hero, despite his decision to relinquish his public identity. His inclusion in Doomsday and Secret Wars is highly likely, barring any further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony. The world's amnesia regarding his identity presents a challenge, but Wong's cryptic statement in No Way Home suggests a potential solution.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk will likely have a role, She-Hulk is emerging as a powerful Avenger. Tatiana Maslany's Jennifer Walters combines legal acumen, physical strength, and a meta-awareness, making her a compelling addition.
The Marvels
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 feature prominently in Doomsday and Secret Wars. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities and the unresolved mystery surrounding Monica's powers suggest significant roles. Kamala, despite her Young Avengers focus, will likely join the main Avengers team.
Team Size and Composition
The potential Avengers roster for Doomsday is substantial, far exceeding the original six. The comics have precedents for large-scale teams and multiple co-existing teams, a model the MCU might adopt.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
The Avengers need archers. While Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye may be semi-retired, his potential return is hinted at. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, having been approached by Kamala in The Marvels, is also a strong candidate.
Thor
Thor, as one of the few remaining original Avengers, is likely to remain a key member. Thor: Love and Thunder leaves him positioned for future conflicts, potentially bringing his daughter, Love, with him. The Secret Wars storyline could feature multiple Thors.
The Ant-Man Family
Given the Quantumania's introduction of Kang, Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature are likely to remain important, particularly given the Quantum Realm's significance.
Star-Lord
Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential role in Doomsday. His leadership style and potential conflict with other Avengers could be a key plot point.
Black Panther
Shuri, as the new Black Panther, will likely continue Wakanda's support of the Avengers, alongside M'Baku.
Leadership and the Future
A poll follows, asking readers to vote for their preferred leader for the new Avengers team. The article concludes by reminding readers of Robert Downey Jr.'s potential role as Doctor Doom and provides links to further MCU information. A note indicates the article's original publication date and its recent update.
