Real Madrid’s Stance on the New FIFA Club World Cup: Ancelotti Speaks Out

The FIFA Club World Cup is set to introduce its revamped format in the summer of 2025, featuring 32 teams and taking place in the USA. Real Madrid, having secured their spot through their UEFA Champions League victories in the 2021/22 and 2023/24 seasons, are among the elite clubs invited. However, Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has made a stunning declaration: the club will not be participating in the tournament.

Ancelotti’s Strong Stance Against FIFA’s Tournament

In an interview with Il Giornale, Ancelotti expressed his firm opposition to FIFA’s plans. “FIFA can forget about it. Footballers and clubs will not take part in that tournament. A single Madrid game is worth €20 million and FIFA wants to give us that figure for the whole tournament: negative,” he stated emphatically. Ancelotti’s comments reflect a broader discontent among top clubs regarding the scheduling and financial compensation of the new Club World Cup.

Concerns Over Player Welfare and Tournament Overload

The redesigned FIFA Club World Cup has faced significant criticism, particularly from players and the global players’ union FIFPRO. Critics argue that the addition of another extensive tournament to an already packed calendar exacerbates the physical and mental burden on footballers. For Real Madrid, the 2024/25 season is already set to be gruelling. Besides La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, and UEFA Super Cup, the team is also committed to the inaugural FIFA Intercontinental Cup in December 2024.

The Implications of Tournament Participation

Should Real Madrid accept the invitation to the Club World Cup, they would compete in a total of seven tournaments throughout the season, potentially leading to 72 matches across all competitions. This intense schedule raises legitimate concerns about player fatigue and increased injury risks, which underpin Ancelotti’s resistance to the tournament.

Official Club Stance Still Pending

Despite Ancelotti’s vocal opposition, Real Madrid has yet to issue an official statement regarding their participation in the new Club World Cup. The manager’s comments, while significant, do not constitute an official club policy. Observers and fans alike are awaiting a formal announcement from the club’s administration to clarify their position.

Ancelotti Reflects on His Career and Future

Celebrating his 65th birthday, Ancelotti also reflected on his long and illustrious career. He shared his enduring passion for the game, stating, “I continue to live the passion, the match, the game, my work. I overcame difficult moments. After the experience at Everton, I was out of the spotlight; they said I was old, like at Napoli. I warned my children: I’m not old, I don’t feel these years” . Ancelotti’s reflections underscore his resilience and dedication to football, even as he navigates the complexities of modern football management.

Awaiting Real Madrid’s Final Decision

Ancelotti’s comments have certainly stirred the conversation about the new FIFA Club World Cup and its impact on top-tier football clubs. As the football world watches, the final decision from Real Madrid will be pivotal in shaping the future of the tournament and addressing the broader concerns of player welfare and tournament congestion.

While the club’s official stance remains to be seen, Ancelotti’s firm opposition highlights the significant challenges and considerations that come with the evolving landscape of international football competitions.