Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has made a bold statement by declaring that the club will not be participating in the inaugural edition of FIFA’s new Club World Cup tournament next summer. Ancelotti cited a lack of financial incentive as the primary reason behind the decision. Despite securing their spot in the competition by winning the Champions League title in 2022 and 2024, Madrid, along with other unnamed clubs, will not be partaking in the event. Ancelotti emphasized the disparity between the value of a single Real Madrid game, estimated at €20 million, and the amount FIFA was planning to offer for the entire Club World Cup tournament.
The new Club World Cup format is FIFA’s ambitious project to elevate club football to the level of success seen in prestigious competitions like the Champions League and the Copa Libertadores. This expanded tournament, scheduled to be held in the United States in June and July 2025, will feature 32 teams from regions across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. Out of the 32 spots available, 29 have already been filled, with Real Madrid being one of the qualified teams. The new format includes teams from various continents, with qualification pathways based on winning their respective club competitions or past performance rankings.
Despite FIFA’s intentions to promote global football and provide more opportunities for clubs worldwide, the revamped Club World Cup has faced criticism from various quarters. Domestic leagues and players’ unions have expressed concerns about player workload and the potential strain on club schedules. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the tournament, highlighting that the organization only oversees a small percentage of total football matches played globally. Infantino emphasized FIFA’s role in financing football development worldwide and expressed hope that the debate surrounding the Club World Cup would cease.
As Carlo Ancelotti enjoys his holiday in Vancouver, Canada, following a successful season with Real Madrid, he is focused on convincing midfielder Toni Kroos to reconsider his decision to retire. Kroos had previously announced his intention to retire after participating in the European Championship with Germany this summer. Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding the Club World Cup, Ancelotti remains dedicated to shaping the future of his team and retaining key players for the upcoming seasons.
Real Madrid’s refusal to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup reflects the club’s commitment to prioritizing financial considerations and player well-being. While the tournament aims to elevate club football and provide new opportunities for teams across continents, challenges and criticisms persist. As football’s governing bodies navigate these complexities, managers like Carlo Ancelotti continue to strategize for success on and off the field.
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