Former Real Madrid player Geremi Njitap has dismissed Inter Miami's chances of winning the FIFA Club World Cup, despite having Lionel Messi in their squad.
The Cameroonian football star believes the American side faces insurmountable odds against more established teams with players in their prime.
"Lionel Messi is no longer young," Njitap told Boyle Sports via Goal. "He is going to come up against great clubs who have great players in the peak of their careers. Does he have a chance of winning it? I don't think so."
Age Factor and Team Quality
Njitap pointed out that Messi, who turns 38 later this month, is past his prime and lacks the caliber of teammates he enjoyed at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
Inter Miami qualified for the tournament after winning the MLS Supporters' Shield in 2024. They are set to play their opening match against Egyptian Premier League side Al Ahly at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Saturday, June 14.
The Herons have been drawn in Group A alongside Al Ahly, Palmeiras, and Porto, facing stiff competition from the start.
While Messi remains one of football's greatest players, Njitap's assessment suggests that team strength and player prime will likely prevail over individual brilliance in this tournament format.
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