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 the back-to-back releases of Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (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 the departure of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, Benedict Wong's Wong has emerged as a pivotal figure in Phases 4 and 5, acting as a unifying force within the MCU. His appearances in numerous post-Endgame 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 rapport with Madisynn in She-Hulk further enhances his appeal.
With his ascension to Sorcerer Supreme, Wong's proactive role in defending the world against emerging threats is established. His presence in the next Avengers assembly is virtually guaranteed.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender for a Phase 6 Avengers spot. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings hints at future involvement. Furthermore, Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (before directorial changes) suggests significant plans for Shang-Chi's future.
His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset. The mid-credits scene in The Legend of the Ten Rings alludes to a larger mystery surrounding these artifacts, potentially playing a crucial role in Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange
Despite Wong's current title of Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's continued importance in Phase 6's Avengers is undeniable. His expertise in magic and the multiverse remains invaluable.
His current involvement in another universe, assisting Clea (Charlize Theron) with the Incursion problem, suggests a potential absence before Doomsday. However, the Multiverse of Madness tease likely foreshadows his involvement in the Avengers' battle against Doctor Doom.
Captain America
An Avengers roster without a Captain America is incomplete. While Chris Evans' Steve Rogers has retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier depicted Sam's reluctant acceptance, and Captain America: Brave New World will showcase his evolution.
Brave New World suggests Sam's crucial role in reassembling the Avengers, even facing conflict with President Ross (Harrison Ford) over a government-sanctioned team. His journey towards embracing leadership will likely be a key theme in Doomsday and Secret Wars.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine, previously a supporting character, is poised for a more prominent solo role in the Multiverse Saga. Armor Wars will see Rhodey combating the misuse of Tony Stark's technology, building upon Secret Invasion's revelation of a Skrull impersonator.
Before Armor Wars, War Machine's inclusion in the new Avengers is highly probable, filling the void left by Iron Man with his combat experience and firepower.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a strong candidate to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, showcasing her armor-building skills and intellect, is a strong foundation. Her solo series, Ironheart, will further establish her identity.
By Avengers: Doomsday, Ironheart should be a fully realized hero, ready to contribute her intelligence and advanced technology to the team.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship MCU hero, despite choosing a less public life. His participation in Doomsday and Secret Wars is anticipated, barring any further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony.
The world's amnesia regarding Spider-Man's identity presents a challenge. However, fan theories suggest Wong's knowledge of Peter Parker's secret identity could facilitate his return.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk will likely have a role, his reduced presence and focus on Skaar suggest a supporting role. Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk, however, is emerging as a powerful new Avenger. Her legal expertise, strength, and humorous personality make her a perfect fit.
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 play significant roles in Doomsday and Secret Wars.
Captain Marvel's leadership qualities and Monica's mysterious situation could be crucial. Kamala, while potentially focusing on the Young Avengers, is expected to join the main team.
Team Size and Composition
The potential Avengers roster for Doomsday is considerably larger than the original six. The comics have precedent for expansive teams, often employing smaller subgroups for specific threats or maintaining multiple concurrent teams. This model could be adopted by the MCU.
Hawkeye & Kate Bishop
Archery skills are a valuable asset. Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye, despite a recent accident, expresses confidence in returning. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, having been approached by Kamala in The Marvels, is also a strong candidate.
Thor
Thor, as a veteran Avenger, is likely to remain a key member. Thor: Love and Thunder's ending positions him well for future involvement, potentially including his daughter, Love. The Secret Wars comic's Thor Corps could also play a role.
The Ant-Man Family
Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's introduction of Kang, their continued involvement is expected, even if Kang is not the primary antagonist. The Quantum Realm's importance suggests their roles in Doomsday.
Star-Lord
The Guardians of the Galaxy's involvement is uncertain, but Star-Lord's return to Earth in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential role in Doomsday. His leadership style could be a point of conflict.
Black Panther
Wakanda's resources and technology make it a valuable asset. Shuri's role as the new Black Panther, along with M'Baku's position as monarch, will shape Wakanda's contribution to the Avengers.
Who should lead the new Avengers team? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts!
Last updated: February 18, 2025
