Will FIFA's idea flop? The main intrigues of the 2025 Club World Cup

From June 15 to July 13, matches of the Club World Cup will be held across 11 cities in the United States. The new format, featuring 32 teams, a billion-dollar prize pool, and a structure reminiscent of the national World Cup, elevates the tournament to a whole new level. For the first time, fans will witness such a large-scale showdown between clubs from every continent.

So, what are the main storylines to watch out for in this tournament?

New format: success or failure?

A 32-team format with a full tournament bracket makes the Club World Cup more spectacular, but it also raises concerns about player fitness. Another month of high-intensity football after a grueling season could lead to injuries and heavy squad rotation among the giants, possibly lowering the intensity of the group stage. Late-night kickoffs for European and other non-American fans add further skepticism.

On the other hand, the tournament offers a unique opportunity to compare footballing philosophies from different continents. A $125 million prize for the winner guarantees sky-high motivation. Success at the 2025 Club World Cup could lay the foundation for reforming the global club football landscape.

Will we see Messi's magic for the last time on the world club stage?

Lionel Messi is one of the tournament’s main headline-makers. His Inter Miami is making its debut on the world stage, and the entire footballing world is eager to see if the Argentine maestro can dazzle again, as he did at World Cups and in the Champions League.

His experience, charisma, and ability to decide games single-handedly could be the X-factor for the American club.

The question: Will Messi have the strength and motivation to create footballing magic one more time against European and South American giants?

Which European "non-giants" could surprise?

It’s not just the traditional powerhouses—ambitious sides like Benfica, Porto, Salzburg, and Borussia Dortmund are all capable of springing a surprise.

Dortmund is especially intriguing: a new energy from coach Kovac, the progress of Guirassy, and the arrival of Jobe Bellingham make this team dangerous in a knockout tournament.

The question: Which of these teams can make it to the quarterfinals or even semifinals by taking advantage of the favorites’ fatigue?

Which non-European clubs will shine?

The new Club World Cup format brings extra intrigue to clubs from around the globe:

Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) — the most star-studded team in Asia, featuring Mitrović, Malcom, Milinković-Savić, and Inzaghi as head coach. Their mission: to prove the Saudi league is on par with Europe’s elite.

Palmeiras, River Plate, Boca Juniors — South America's traditional powerhouses are the main challengers to the European clubs. They always play with maximum motivation and are capable of knocking out any favorite from the Old Continent.

Al Ahly (Egypt) — Africa’s most decorated club is expected to play a disciplined, organized game with a focus on defense and lightning-fast counterattacks. Their team spirit and collective cohesion have often stunned the favorites.

Monterrey (Mexico) — a squad filled with names familiar to European fans: Sergio Ramos, Ocampos, Héctor Moreno.

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) and Auckland City (New Zealand) — the tournament’s exotic dark horses, capable of snatching points from the favorites thanks to their organization and determination.

Al Ain (UAE), led by Vladimir Ivić and Rui Patrício in goal, are a solid side that could cause an upset against the likes of Juventus or Manchester City.

Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan) and Ulsan (South Korea) — traditionally well-organized and resilient clubs who could become "dark horses" in the group stage.

Who will win the Golden Boot?

The race for the top scorer promises to be intense. Bookmakers are highlighting several big contenders:

Mbappé, in red-hot form, is the favorite—especially given the relatively weak opposition in his group (Salzburg, Pachuca). Guirassy, who scored 13 goals in the Champions League, could be a surprise package for an attacking Borussia Dortmund. For Ousmane Dembélé, a top Ballon d'Or candidate, this is a chance to remind everyone of his quality. Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Lautaro Martínez also have something to prove.

Who will lift the trophy?

Bookmakers have identified the main favorites, and they're all from Europe:

• Real Madrid: Los Blancos are looking for redemption after a disappointing season. Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius, bolstered by newcomers like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, form a powerful squad. But a lack of chemistry with the new coach and a potential Mbappé-Vinicius rivalry could be stumbling blocks.

• Manchester City: Despite an inconsistent season, the Citizens remain a formidable force. The return of Rodri, new signings (Reijnders, Cherki, Aït-Nouri), and the tactical genius of Pep Guardiola make City one of the favorites. But the real test of their strength will be the group stage clash with Juventus.

• Bayern Munich: Led by Vincent Kompany, Bayern are out to erase the sting of a premature Champions League exit. Harry Kane and Thomas Müller—playing his farewell tournament—are extra motivated. Their squad depth and early rest after the Bundesliga season are major advantages.

• PSG: The Champions League winners arrive as perhaps the most balanced side in the tournament. Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Vitinha are ready to extend their winning streak, eyeing a fifth trophy this season.

The 2025 Club World Cup promises to be more than just a tournament—it’s an event that could shape the future of club football.