Despite lingering concerns over ticket sales and player fatigue, FIFA’s much-anticipated expanded Club World Cup kicks off on June 14 (June 15, Singapore time), promising high drama, global rivalries, and a staggering US$1 billion (S$1.3 billion) in prize money.
Here are five major talking points to follow as the tournament gets underway:
1. Messi Returns to the Global Stage
Lionel Messi, now 37, is back under the international spotlight with Inter Miami, reigniting interest as he faces European opposition once again.
Having spent the last two seasons in MLS alongside former Barcelona teammates Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, Messi’s quality is undeniable—but questions remain over whether this veteran core can compete with Europe’s elite.
Their marquee matchup against Porto in Atlanta will be a key test. If Messi scores, he’ll become the oldest player to net in a Club World Cup. Both he and Suarez also sit just two goals behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s tournament scoring record.
2. Desire Doue’s Star Continues to Rise
Paris Saint-Germain’s new sensation, Desire Doue, will be a major focus. The 20-year-old stole headlines with a stunning performance in the Champions League final, scoring twice and assisting another in PSG’s 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan.
Now, with the world watching, Doue has a golden opportunity to showcase his talent again—this time in PSG’s opener against Atletico Madrid at the iconic Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. With Lamine Yamal absent due to Barcelona’s failure to qualify, Doue could become the breakout star of the tournament.
3. Revamped Manchester City Look to Reassert Dominance
After a disappointing domestic season by their standards, Manchester City wasted no time strengthening their squad in the special transfer window.
The reigning Premier League champions have added over £100 million worth of talent, including Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and exciting French midfielder Rayan Cherki. With Rodri also back from injury, Pep Guardiola’s side looks primed for a resurgence.
City will be aiming to remind the world of their quality and reclaim their status as the club to beat on the world stage.
4. South American Clubs Bring Energy and Ambition
Unlike their European counterparts, South American sides are in the middle of their domestic seasons, meaning they arrive in top physical condition and with fierce motivation.
The Club World Cup remains a prestigious goal in South America, offering the chance to challenge Europe’s giants and showcase local talent. Fans should keep an eye on River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono, who will join Real Madrid after the tournament, and Palmeiras’ Estevao Willian, bound for Chelsea. Both are eager to make a statement before their big moves.
5. Atletico Madrid’s Quest for Redemption
After finishing the season empty-handed, Atletico Madrid enter the tournament with something to prove.
Having qualified ahead of La Liga rivals Barcelona, Diego Simeone’s side is determined to make their mark. The coach has been vocal about his ambitions, stating, “I hope we can advance in the Club World Cup and lead Atletico Madrid to a privileged position.”
Their Champions League campaign ended in controversy with a disallowed penalty by Julian Alvarez, triggering a late-season slump. Now, with renewed focus, Atletico aim to turn the page and end their trophy drought dating back to 2021.
