The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is set to showcase some of the world’s top talent, with stars from global giants like Manchester City, PSG, and Real Madrid expectedto headline the event. However, not all the big names will be making the trip to the United States this summer.
Due to the tournament’s limited spots—just 12 for European clubs—some major teams
have missed out, including Arsenal, Barcelona, and Liverpool. As a result,
several high-profile players will be absent from the competition. Here are nine
notable footballers who won’t be featuring in the expanded tournament.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
You can bet FIFA president Gianni Infantino would’ve loved to have
Cristiano Ronaldo as a poster boy for the tournament. Unfortunately, Ronaldo’s
Al Nassr side failed to secure the necessary silverware to qualify.
Despite the Saudi Pro League's ambitions—and significant backing—Ronaldo won’t be
taking part. On the bright side, a summer off might do the 40-year-old some good
as he manages the physical demands of the Saudi climate.
2. Lamine Yamal
Barcelona won’t be at the Club World Cup, and that’s actually a blessing in
disguise for their rising star, Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old prodigy has already
racked up over 60 appearances and more than 4,000 minutes of football this season.
With the risk of burnout and injuries looming, especially given the fates of
former Barca youngsters like Ansu Fati and Pedri, Yamal will benefit from a
crucial rest period this summer.
3. Neymar
Neymar might have featured in the tournament had he stayed at Al Hilal, but his
return to Santos earlier this year ruled that out. The Brazilian icon has
expressed his desire to return to top form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and
avoiding the spotlight this summer could help in his recovery from persistent
injuries.
4. Mohamed Salah
Liverpool’s consistent performance in Europe wasn’t enough to secure a spot,
thanks to the rule allowing only two clubs per association. As a result,
Mo Salah—one of Liverpool’s standout stars—won’t be in action.
Despite a 29-goal league campaign, Salah will be watching the tournament from
afar, giving him time to recharge for another title push under new manager
Arne Slot.
5. Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz may be on the verge of a massive transfer to Liverpool, but even
if he had stayed at Bayer Leverkusen, he wouldn't have qualified. Despite
Leverkusen's historic Bundesliga win in 2024, they fell short in Europe.
Instead, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund will represent Germany. After a
demanding season and some tired displays for Germany in the Nations League,
Wirtz now gets a chance to rest before possibly making his Premier League debut.
6. Raphinha
Barcelona winger Raphinha had a breakout season, delivering 34 goals and 25
assists across competitions. The Brazilian’s form has put him in contention for
individual accolades, yet fans won’t see him at the Club World Cup.
Barcelona’s absence from the competition means Raphinha’s dazzling performances
won’t be on display in the U.S. this summer.
7. Virgil van Dijk
Van Dijk has bounced back spectacularly from his ACL injury, returning to his
dominant best in Liverpool’s 2024–25 campaign. Under new leadership, the Dutch
defender looked more assured than ever.
But despite his form, he won’t feature in the Club World Cup due to Liverpool
missing out. He’ll instead enjoy a break following the Netherlands' June
qualifiers.
8. Alexander Isak
Isak had a phenomenal season with Newcastle, netting 23 goals in 34 Premier
League matches. He’s now being considered among the league’s top strikers—right
behind Erling Haaland.
Although Newcastle are preparing for a Champions League return, they didn’t do
enough in recent seasons to secure a Club World Cup spot. Isak will have the
summer to rest and reset.
9. Pedri
Pedri was a force of nature last season, reestablishing himself as one of the
most complete midfielders in the world. Unfortunately, Barcelona’s absence from
the tournament means he’ll be missing out on this major stage.
Considering his history with injuries and the heavy workload, Pedri’s summer off
might actually be a well-timed blessing.
While the 2025 Club World Cup will feature plenty of big names and thrilling
matches, it’s hard not to notice the absence of some of football’s brightest
stars. For these nine players, however, the time off could be crucial in
prolonging their careers and preparing for the battles ahead—especially with the
2026 World Cup on the horizon.