Lionel Andres Messi, one of the greatest ever footballers of all time departed from the European football scenario in 2023, after 20 years to join MLS side Inter Miami. But, now once again he is set to fight the European giants, as his present side might get the “host” spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
As per media outlet ESPN, Inter Miami is set to be announced as the final Major League Soccer participant for the prestigious tournament. The report also claimed that the official announcement is expected to be made next week.
How Inter Miami qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
FIFA Club World Club 2025 is the 21st edition of the tournament, and for the first time, the major tournament will be a 32-team affair, expanding from its usual 7-team format. The governing body awarded 12 slots to UEFA (confederation of European Clubs), 6 to CONMEBOL (confederation of South American Clubs), 4 each to CONCACAF (confederation of North American and Caribbean Clubs), and 1 to OFC (confederation of Oceania Clubs).
The four slots in Inter Miami’s confederation were already decided: Pachua (2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup), Leon (2023 CONCACAF Champions Cup), Seattle Sounders (2022 CONCACAF Champions Cup) and Monterrey (2021 CONCACAF Champions Cup). However, the North American confederation was invited to let one more of their clubs participate, as the USA will host the event.
FIFA however hailed the right to choose the invited CONCACAF participant, and it chose Inter Miami, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners. This way, the Lionel Messi-led side would be gaining entry into the 2025 Club World Cup.
What awaits for Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in the Club World Cup?
One can expect Inter Miami from South Florida to face off with European giants like Manchester City, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Paris Saint Germain.
Lionel Messi, who ruled European football for two decades has many stories of his might against these clubs while representing his favourite FC Barcelona. Fans would be elated to see the Argentine legend take on his rivals once again. A game against his former club PSG would tempt many.
Inter Miami are currently leading the MLS table, with 71 points. The side is also represented by other FC Barcelona legends like Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. A game with these Barca legends on one side and the European top clubs on the rival end would be intriguing to watch.
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