5+5 Reasons to Watch the 2025 Club World Cup

The 2025 Club World Cup is just around the corner. In the past, this tournament might have felt like a warm-up series or a pre-season event. But this year is different. FIFA has reinvented the competition, turning it into a major global tournament with a format and prestige similar to the FIFA World Cup.

For the first time, the tournament will feature 32 of the world’s most successful and iconic football clubs. These elite teams will travel to the United States, which is also the host nation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, to battle it out for a title that now holds more weight than ever before.

Running from June 14 to July 13, the 2025 edition promises a full month of elite-level football. With games involving clubs from every continent, it won’t just be a showcase of talent, but also a festival of cultures, tactics, and unforgettable storylines.

Players to Watch at the Club World Cup

One of the main reasons fans will be tuning in is to watch the game’s biggest stars. Whether you’re a sucker for young talents making their debut on the world stage or seasoned legends looking for the perfect career send-off, the 2025 Club World Cup player roster is stacked. Here’s a few names to keep an eye on this summer.

Kylian Mbappé – Real Madrid’s Superstar

Few players stir as much anticipation as Kylian Mbappé. The French forward completed his move to Real Madrid after years of speculation and has quickly lived up to expectations, breaking goal-scoring records throughout the season.

Although Real Madrid fell short of silverware, Mbappé’s presence alone makes them one of the tournament’s frontrunners. He finished the 2024/25 La Liga season as the division’s top scorer with 31 goals in 34 games, four more than Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski. With less pressure and more freedom, expect fireworks from one of the world’s most explosive players.

Rodri – Manchester City’s Engine

No midfielder embodies control and consistency quite like Rodri. After suffering a major ACL knee injury earlier this year, his return to action has reignited Manchester City’s rhythm.

Rodri’s passing range, vision, and calm under pressure make him crucial to City’s title defence, as well as Spain’s engine room when on international duty. That’s why Rodri was the deserved winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – PSG’s Magician

Nicknamed “Kvaradona” in Naples, the Georgian winger has drawn comparisons to footballing legends for good reason. His flair, creativity, and ability to unlock defences make him one of the most exciting players to watch.

Now playing for PSG, Kvaratskhelia brings his unique style to a new audience. Expect dazzling dribbles and key moments as he continues to cement his place among the game’s elite. He was an integral part of PSG’s Champions League-winning team, with his direct running and power putting defences firmly on red alert. Kvaratskhelia’s rise from playing for minnows Dinamo Batumi in 2022 to turning out in the Club World Cup three years later is a heartwarming tale.

Estevão Willian – Palmeiras’ Wonderkid

Barely 18, Estevão is already considered one of Brazil’s brightest young talents of his generation. His performances for Palmeiras have caught global attention, and he’s set to join Chelsea after the tournament.

With impressive pace, technical skill, and a mature understanding of the game, he’s expected to light up the tournament—possibly even against his future club.

Lionel Messi – The Legend

Even at 37, Lionel Messi remains one of the most influential figures in football. Now playing for Inter Miami, the legendary Argentine is set to participate in the Club World Cup as part of the host club.

His intelligence, passing, and eye for goal make every appearance special. For many, this may be one of the last opportunities to watch the GOAT on a global stage. His move to Inter Miami hasn’t been plain sailing thus far, with injuries and poor team form occurring. That didn’t stop him scoring more than a goal per game last season – and he’s on track to repeat that strike rate in 2025.

More Reasons to Watch the Club World Cup

While the player line-up alone is enough to draw millions of viewers, the 2025 Club World Cup brings more to the table – from a groundbreaking format to exciting matchups and historic implications.

A 32-Team Format for the First Time

This year marks the first time the tournament will include 32 teams, replicating the format of the FIFA World Cup. It’s a major expansion that introduces more diversity and competition to the event.

Divided into eight groups of four, the top two from each group will progress to the knockout stages. It’s a structure built for drama, where every match can shift the tournament landscape.

Clashing Football Cultures

The Club World Cup’s new format brings together clubs from all continents, highlighting the contrasting styles of play that exist in all four corners of the globe. European precision meets South American flair. African athleticism goes head-to-head with Asian discipline. North American physicality challenges tactical depth. This tournament has got it all.

This blend of styles promises unpredictable results and thrilling spectacles. Betsson users can expect a wide array of odds to bet on this summer as these footballing cultures collide.

Potential Blockbuster Clashes

With so many top-tier clubs involved, classic derbies and intercontinental showdowns are all but guaranteed. Imagine Real Madrid taking on Atlético Madrid or Chelsea facing Palmeiras. River Plate and Boca Juniors lock horns on foreign soil, while Inter and Juventus could renew their own historic rivalry.

Every round has the potential to deliver unforgettable encounters.

A Stage for Rising Stars

Tournaments like this often serve as the launchpad for future stars. Young players have the freedom to perform without the crushing pressure of a World Cup final, making the Club World Cup an ideal springboard to shine.

Scouts will be watching, and many of these players could become household names by the end of the tournament.

Records in the Making

With a prize pool nearing $1 billion, the 2025 Club World Cup is poised to become the most valuable club football tournament in history. The stakes have never been higher.

Expect record-breaking performances – from goals scored and attendances to global broadcast numbers. This is more than a football tournament; it’s an historic moment in the sport’s evolution.

Records Under Threat

The 2025 Club World Cup is not just a warm-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It stands on its own as a bold new chapter in global football. From superstars like Messi and Mbappé to the promise of young talents like Estevão. From tactical chess matches to wild underdog runs, this tournament will have something for everyone.

Whether you’re watching for the love of the game, following your favourite club, or looking for smart betting opportunities on Betsson, this summer’s Club World Cup should be firmly marked on your calendar.