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
Wong
In the absence of Stark and Rogers, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure in Phases 4 and 5. His appearances across numerous projects solidify his role as a key player. Having inherited the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, his proactive defense of Earth positions him perfectly for a leadership role in the reassembled Avengers. We've arguably entered "Phase Wong" of the MCU.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is almost certainly destined for the 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 future plans for the character. His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset. The mid-credits scene in Shang-Chi hints at a larger mystery that could significantly impact Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange
While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains crucial. His current involvement in another universe addressing incursions, alongside Clea, suggests a future convergence with the Avengers' fight against Doctor Doom.
Captain America
Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, is essential to any Avengers roster. Captain America: Brave New World depicts his evolution as a leader, potentially setting him up as a key figure in reuniting the team. His struggle to live up to Steve Rogers' legacy will likely be a significant theme in Doomsday and Secret Wars.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role. Armor Wars will further establish him as a solo hero, building upon his Secret Invasion storyline. 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, Ironheart, will solidify her position as a key hero. Her intelligence and technological prowess will be invaluable against powerful foes.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship hero, despite his decision to remain anonymous. His inclusion in Doomsday and Secret Wars is highly probable, though the world's amnesia regarding his identity presents a narrative challenge.
She-Hulk
While Hulk may take a supporting role, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is a strong contender for the Avengers. 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, having formed their own team in The Marvels, are likely to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities and Kamala's enthusiasm make them valuable assets.
A Large-Scale Avengers Team?
The potential roster for Avengers: Doomsday is substantial. The comics have precedent for large-scale Avengers teams, often deploying smaller groups to handle specific threats. The MCU may adopt a similar approach, possibly introducing multiple co-existing Avengers teams.
Hawkeye & Kate Bishop
Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye, despite recent setbacks, may return. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop's appearance in The Marvels' post-credits scene suggests her involvement.
Thor
Thor, as one of the few original Avengers still active, is likely to remain a key member. Thor: Love and Thunder's ending leaves him well-positioned to defend Earth.
The Ant-Man Family
Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's focus on Kang, the Ant-Man family's involvement in Doomsday is highly likely. The Quantum Realm will likely remain a significant plot element.
Star-Lord
Chris Pratt's Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential role in the Avengers films.
Black Panther
With Shuri now wielding the mantle of Black Panther, Wakanda's continued support for the Avengers is highly probable.
Who Should Lead the New Avengers?
Note: This article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
