Frank Christian
The Club World Cup is set to transform from a brief tournament featuring the top continental clubs into a massive 32-team event, taking place over a month in the summer of 2025.
Interestingly, Lionel Messi’s current team, Inter Miami, is likely to secure a spot in this tournament.
Kaveh Solhekol noted on social media that an invite will likely go to Inter Miami as the U.S. hosts the event, alongside their role in the 2026 international World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
Having claimed the 2024 MLS Supporters Shield, which honors the best league performance before playoffs, Miami is expected to be one of the invitees along with Messi.
With 30 other teams already confirmed, there are exciting matchups fans hope to see. Here are five thrilling possibilities we could anticipate in December’s draw.
Real Madrid
A clash between Inter Miami and Real Madrid would revive memories of Messi’s intense rivalry with Real fans during his Barcelona days. Real Madrid enters as the reigning Champions League champions, having recently triumphed over Borussia Dortmund in the final.
Manchester City
Manchester City will also join, having won the Champions League in the 2022-23 season against Inter Milan. A matchup against City could reunite Messi with Pep Guardiola, who managed him at Barcelona during an iconic treble-winning season.
Paris St-Germain
After an unexpected departure from Barcelona, Messi played two seasons at PSG from 2021 to 2023. The French club qualifies as one of nine European representatives based on their UEFA ranking.
River Plate
River Plate, one of two Argentine clubs, might secure their place by winning the 2024 Copa Libertadores once they finish their semi-final and final. Regardless, they can still qualify via their CONMEBOL ranking, allowing Messi a shot to face a team from his homeland.
Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors also brings an intriguing prospect, as they qualify through their UEFA ranking. They are notably the club where Messi’s idol, Diego Maradona, notably played during his career, adding a special connection for Messi during potential encounters.
