FIFA has reportedly turned down Barcelona's request for a late inclusion in the 2025 Club World Cup, despite the Spanish giants' impressive domestic treble in the 2024-25 season.
According to sources close to the situation, Barcelona approached FIFA directly after a spot opened up following the expulsion of Mexican club Leon due to multi-ownership regulations. Leon and domestic rivals Pachuca are operated by the same ownership group, violating FIFA's tournament rules.
Despite Barcelona's credentials as La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup winners in the 2024-25 season, FIFA maintained its regional allocation policy by awarding the vacant position to another CONCACAF team. Major League Soccer (MLS) side LAFC eventually secured the spot after defeating Club America in a special play-in match.
Regional Balance Prioritized Over European Giants
FIFA's decision underscores its commitment to maintaining continental representation at the expanded Club World Cup. The tournament's format was designed to include teams from various confederations rather than adding more European powerhouses, even those with Barcelona's pedigree.
The Catalan club joins other notable European teams like Arsenal and Liverpool who also failed to qualify for the prestigious tournament despite their recent successes in domestic competitions.
The 2025 Club World Cup has already begun generating headlines, with Lionel Messi's Inter Miami struggling against Egyptian side Al Ahly in their opening fixture. Several Nigerian players are also set to feature in the tournament, representing various qualified clubs.
Barcelona's exclusion comes amid reports that star winger Nico Williams is considering a salary reduction to join the Catalan club, highlighting their continued pull in the transfer market despite missing out on the global club competition.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola recently commented on the high standards at his former clubs, stating: "Real Madrid, Barcelona would have sacked me," acknowledging the pressure that exists at Spain's top clubs.
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