FIFA’s newly expanded Club World Cup launches this summer in the United States, amid doubts over ticket sales and concerns about player fatigue.
But on the pitch, there’s no shortage of drama or intrigue as elite clubs from across the globe battle for supremacy—and a slice of the $1 billion prize fund. Here are five key talking points ahead of the tournament.
1. Messi’s Last Dance Against Europe?
Lionel Messi returns to the international club spotlight with Inter Miami, facing European opposition once again after two seasons in Major League Soccer. At 37, the Argentine icon still exudes class, but questions remain about whether he and former Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets can hold their own against younger, sharper rivals.
Inter Miami’s second group game is a mouthwatering clash against Porto in Atlanta—a team Messi famously beat with Barcelona in the 2011 UEFA Super Cup. He also made his senior debut against them in 2003 as a 16-year-old in a friendly. If he scores, Messi would become the oldest-ever goalscorer at the Club World Cup—and he and Suárez are just two goals shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s record in the competition.
2. Doue’s Rising Star Shines Brighter
Paris Saint-Germain’s teenage sensation Désiré Doué burst onto the global stage with a spectacular display in the Champions League final, netting twice and assisting another in PSG’s 5-0 rout of Inter Milan. The 20-year-old French forward is widely tipped as one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
With comparisons already being drawn between Doué and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, his performances will be under intense scrutiny. PSG’s opening fixture against Atletico Madrid at the Rose Bowl offers the perfect platform for Doué to reinforce his growing reputation.
3. City’s Summer Overhaul
After a below-par domestic and European season by their high standards, Manchester City have acted swiftly in the special Club World Cup transfer window. Over £100 million has been invested in strengthening the squad, with the arrivals of Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and the highly rated Rayan Cherki.
Cherki, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder from France, arrives with plenty of promise. City are also buoyed by the return of key midfielder Rodri from injury. With Pep Guardiola looking to reassert City’s dominance, expect a revitalised side ready to mount a serious challenge.
4. South America’s Energy and Passion
Unlike their European counterparts, who are nursing end-of-season fatigue, South American clubs head into the tournament mid-season and full of energy. The Club World Cup carries significant prestige in South America—a chance to go toe-to-toe with the world’s best.
Fans will get a glimpse of stars destined for Europe, such as River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono, who will join Real Madrid after the tournament, and Palmeiras forward Estevão Willian, set for a move to Chelsea. For these players, the competition is both a farewell tour and an opportunity to dazzle on the global stage.
5. Atletico’s Point to Prove
Atletico Madrid arrive at the Club World Cup looking to end a three-year trophy drought. Despite a strong start to the season, Diego Simeone’s men ended the campaign empty-handed and bruised by a controversial Champions League exit at the hands of city rivals Real Madrid.
Now, the Argentine coach is targeting a fresh start. “I hope we can advance in the Club World Cup and lead Atletico Madrid to a privileged position,” Simeone declared. With La Liga rivals Barcelona absent, Atletico are keen to fly the Spanish flag and bring silverware back to the capital.
