Barcelona Misses Out on 2025 Club World Cup

Barcelona has been left out of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after FIFA chose LAFC to replace Club Leon, which was excluded due to multi-club ownership rules, while Spain's quota is filled by Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The expanded 32-team tournament, set to take place in the U.S., offers up to $125 million for the winner and significant commercial exposure, representing a major missed financial opportunity for Barcelona amid its ongoing financial struggles. Barcelona's exclusion is a result of FIFA's controversial two-club-per-country rule, which also leaves out other top clubs like Napoli and Arsenal. The club will also miss out on testing new signings and gaining global exposure under coach Hansi Flick. Some within Barcelona, such as physio Julio Tous, believe missing the tournament could allow players crucial rest and reduce injury risk ahead of the 2025/26 season. As the tournament begins with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the spotlight, Barcelona is focusing on rebuilding for future success.