The expanded FIFA Club World Cup is set to bring exciting narratives to the fore this summer in the United States. With $1 billion in prize money up for grabs, Insight Media Sport Arena highlights five major storylines to follow as clubs battle for global supremacy.
1. Messi Returns to the Global Stage
Lionel Messi is once again under the spotlight as he leads Inter Miami into the Club World Cup. The Argentine icon, now 37, will face European competition for the first time since leaving Barcelona, alongside his former teammates Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.
Inter Miami takes on Portuguese side Porto in Atlanta, a team Messi has a history with, having defeated them in the 2011 UEFA Super Cup. Notably, Porto were also the opponents in Messi’s first-ever senior appearance for Barcelona in 2003.
A goal in this tournament would make Messi the oldest player to score in Club World Cup history. Both he and Suarez are just two goals shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s all-time competition record.
2. Doue’s Star Continues to Rise
Paris Saint-Germain’s breakout star Désiré Doué, who turned 20 this June, is among the players to watch this summer. His stunning display in PSG’s Champions League final win over Inter Milan by scoring twice and assisting another has drawn comparisons to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.
With Barcelona absent from the tournament, Doué has the stage to himself as PSG opens their campaign against Atletico Madrid at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles.
3. Manchester City’s Fresh Look
Following a below-par season, Manchester City have overhauled their squad for the Club World Cup. The reigning European champions spent over £100 million on new signings Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and Rayan Cherki to refresh their lineup.
Rodri’s return from injury further boosts Pep Guardiola’s options, while 21-year-old Cherki is tipped to shine. “I believe he can become a world-class player with our guidance,” said City’s director of football, Hugo Viana.
4. South American Sides Bring the Fire
Unlike their European counterparts who are coming off long domestic seasons, South American clubs arrive mid-campaign, full of energy and ambition. The Club World Cup holds special significance for them as a rare chance to test themselves against the world’s elite.
Fans can look forward to emerging stars such as River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono who will join Real Madrid after the tournament and Estevão Willian, the teenage sensation who hopes to leave Palmeiras on a high before heading to Chelsea.
5. Atletico Madrid’s Renewed Determination
After a season without silverware, Atletico Madrid enters the tournament hungry for success. Diego Simeone’s side edged out rivals Barcelona to qualify and are determined to make the most of this opportunity.
“We want to go far and give Atletico a prestigious finish to the season,” said Simeone. The team’s last major triumph came in 2021, and their most recent European glory dates back to 2018.
Having been knocked out of the Champions League in controversial fashion by Real Madrid, Atletico now aim to bounce back on the world stage.
As the tournament unfolds, fans can expect drama, rising stars, and a chance to witness global football giants collide in pursuit of glory.
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