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 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. His appearances in numerous post-Endgame projects solidify his importance. As the Sorcerer Supreme, Wong's proactive defense of the world positions him as a key player in the Avengers' reassembly.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a near-certainty for the Phase 6 Avengers. 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 plans for Shang-Chi's future. His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset. The mid-credits scene in Shang-Chi hints at a larger mystery surrounding these artifacts, potentially impacting Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange
While Wong is the current Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains crucial. His current involvement in another universe addressing incursions with Clea, as teased in Multiverse of Madness, likely sets up his return for the Avengers' confrontation with Doctor Doom.
Captain America
Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, is essential to any Avengers roster. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Captain America: Brave New World showcase his evolution into the role. Brave New World positions him as a potential leader, though his journey to fill Steve Rogers' shoes continues.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role. Armor Wars, building on Secret Invasion, will further establish him as a solo hero. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit for the Avengers, filling the void left by Iron Man.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, Ironheart, is a strong contender to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and her upcoming solo series establish her as a formidable hero, bringing both technological prowess and intellect to the team.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship hero, despite his choice for anonymity. His involvement in Doomsday and Secret Wars seems likely, barring any further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony. The world's amnesia regarding his identity presents a narrative challenge, but possibilities exist for his reintegration.
She-Hulk
While Hulk's role may shift to a supporting one, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk emerges as a powerful new Avenger. Her intelligence, strength, and personality make her a compelling addition.
The Marvels
Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, as seen in The Marvels, are likely to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities and the mysteries surrounding Monica and Kamala's roles suggest their involvement.
A Larger-Than-Life Team?
The potential Avengers roster is substantial. The original team comprised six members; a much larger ensemble is possible, drawing inspiration from the expansive rosters seen in the comics, potentially incorporating multiple co-existing teams.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
The Avengers need archers. Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye, despite his recent accident, may return. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, as seen interacting with Kamala in The Marvels, is also a strong candidate.
Thor
Thor, a veteran Avenger, remains a key figure. His position after Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up for a return. Avengers: Secret Wars might even feature multiple Thors.
The Ant-Man Family
Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's connection to Kang, the Ant-Man family's continued involvement is expected, particularly given the Quantum Realm's importance to the narrative.
Star-Lord
Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential role in Avengers: Doomsday. His leadership style and potential conflict with other Avengers leaders will be interesting to watch.
Black Panther
Shuri's role as the new Black Panther, along with M'Baku's position in Wakanda, will likely continue to impact the Avengers. Wakanda's resources and technology remain invaluable assets.
Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.