The highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup draw for the expanded 2025 tournament has placed defending champions Manchester City in Group G alongside Italian giants Juventus, Moroccan side Wydad, and UAE’s Al Ain. Chelsea, winners of the 2021 edition, are set to face Brazil’s Flamengo, Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis, and Mexico’s Club Leon in Group D. The 32-team tournament, scheduled from June 15 to July 13, will be hosted across 12 venues in the United States, marking a new chapter for the prestigious competition.
Manchester City’s Path to Retaining the Trophy
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, winners of the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup after defeating Fluminense, will start their title defense in a challenging Group G. Their clash with Juventus promises to be a marquee encounter, bringing together two European heavyweights. City will also face Wydad, Morocco’s top club, and UAE champions Al Ain, owned by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the brother of City’s owner Sheikh Mansour.
City’s success in 2023 marked their first triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup tournament, and expectations are high for another stellar campaign. Guardiola’s tactical prowess and a squad featuring global superstars position them as strong favorites. However, Juventus, with their storied history and revitalized squad under coach Thiago Maresca , are expected to provide stiff competition.
Chelsea’s Group of Challenges Against Flamengo and More
Chelsea’s Group D lineup pits them against Brazilian powerhouse Flamengo, whose attacking flair is complemented by their passionate fanbase. The Blues, who lifted the trophy in 2021, will also face Club Leon, one of Mexico’s most successful teams, and Esperance Sportive de Tunis, the pride of Tunisian football.
Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca will aim to bring tactical discipline and attacking precision to navigate this competitive group. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the London club will need to replicate their previous performances on the global stage to advance to the knockout rounds. Flamengo, on the other hand, will rely on their South American flair and experienced squad to pose a significant threat.
Inter Miami’s Controversial Inclusion and Opening Match
Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, has been awarded a controversial spot in the tournament, representing the host nation. The MLS side will kick off the competition with a curtain-raiser against Egypt’s Al Ahly at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Despite not being this season’s MLS champions, their inclusion has sparked debate due to FIFA’s decision to prioritize marketability over merit.
Messi’s presence ensures global attention, as the Argentine legend continues to influence football in North America. While critics question the fairness of Inter Miami’s spot, the club is determined to prove their worth on the global stage, starting with a challenging opener against Africa’s most successful club.
Expanded Format and FIFA’s Scheduling Controversy
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marks the first edition under the expanded 32-team format, replacing the previous seven-team annual competition. Teams from all six international confederations are represented, with Europe contributing the highest quota of 12 clubs based on Champions League performances over the past four seasons.
However, FIFA faces criticism for the tournament’s scheduling. Player unions and leagues have expressed concerns about the congested calendar, as the competition starts just two weeks after the Champions League final and ends five weeks before the Premier League’s opening weekend. Despite the controversy, FIFA insists the schedule allows adequate rest for players.
Broadcasting rights for the 63-match tournament have been secured by DAZN, ensuring fans worldwide can witness the action across the 29-day spectacle. With venues spread across the U.S., the tournament serves as a precursor to the 2026 World Cup, showcasing the country’s readiness to host major global events.
