FIFA Club World Cup: Top 11 big-name stars to watch out for
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From Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe to Thiago Silva and Sergio Ramos, witness the elite talents gracing the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup (Credit: Imago)

FIFA Club World Cup: Top 11 big-name stars to watch out for

Seye Omidiora 15:24 - 13.06.2025

From Messi and Mbappe to Kane and Haaland, Pulse Sports highlights the elite talents gracing the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in the United States from 14 June to 13 July, unveils a revolutionary expanded format. 

Thirty-two elite clubs from across six confederations will battle it out, mirroring the FIFA World Cup structure with a group stage leading to thrilling knockout rounds. 

This month-long tournament promises a global clash of champions, featuring powerhouses like Real Madrid, Manchester City and Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino with the rebranded Club World Cup trophy | IMAGO

Witness the best club teams on the planet compete for ultimate glory and a massive one billion dollar prize pot.

In this article, Pulse Sports picks out some stars that should be involved in the month-long tournament in the United States.

Kylian Mbappe 

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe | Getty Images

Kylian Mbappe will represent Real Madrid at the Club World Cup, which is set to take place across 11 cities in the USA. 

As a World Cup winner with France, he is among a stellar lineup of players participating in this prominent tournament.

Other notable non-English Real Madrid stars include Thibaut Courtois, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Federico Valverde.

Lionel Messi 

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi | Credit: Imago

Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, is a key player for Inter Miami, who secured their spot in the tournament after winning the MLS Supporters' Shield. 

He joins a notable group of former Barcelona teammates, including Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos in action for Monterrey (Credit: Imago)

Sergio Ramos, the captain of Mexican side Monterrey and a World Cup champion with Spain, will also take part in the Club World Cup. 

The defender’s experience and leadership will be vital for Monterrey as they compete against top teams globally. 

Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris 

Hugo Lloris
Former France and Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in action for LAFC in 2025 (Credit: Imago)

Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris are part of the Los Angeles FC squad, having been integral to France's 2018 World Cup victory. 

Their presence adds depth and talent to the team as they look to make an impact in the tournament. 

Antoine Griezmann

Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann and manager Diego Simeone (Photo Credit: Atletico/X)

Antoine Griezmann will be representing Atletico Madrid, joining fellow World Cup winner Mbappe in the tournament. 

As a key player for his club, he brings creativity and his goal-scoring instincts to the field.

Harry Kane

Harry Kane
Harry Kane lifts the Buundesliga title with Bayern Munich. (Credit: Imago) Harry Kane celebrates Bayern Munich's Bundesliga triumph (Credit: Imago)

Harry Kane will play for Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup. 

The England captain is expected to showcase his goal-scoring ability on a global stage. 

Jude Bellingham 

Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid | IMAGO

Jude Bellingham, another standout England international, will also feature for Real Madrid. 

His inclusion highlights Madrid's commitment to integrating young talent with experienced players.

Conor Gallagher 

Conor Gallagher in action for Atletico Madrid on August 25, 2024 (Credit: Imago)

Conor Gallagher is expected to represent Atletico Madrid alongside fellow England player Antoine Griezmann. His performance in the tournament will reflect his growth and potential on the world stage. 

Trent Alexander-Arnold 

Trent Alexander-Arnoldwill wear no 12 at Real Madrid.

Trent Alexander-Arnold recently transferred to Real Madrid from Liverpool and will be available for the Club World Cup.

The Englishman's attacking capabilities make him a vital asset for the team. 

Dean Huijsen

Dean Huijsen
Dean Huijsen has been presented by Real Madrid (Credit: Real Madrid)

Dean Huijsen is another significant addition for Real Madrid, having signed from Bournemouth

His integration into the squad will be key as they aim for success in the tournament. 

Palmer, James lead Chelsea contingent

Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer celebrates Chelsea's Conference League win (Credit: Imago)

Chelsea's squad features star playmaker Cole Palmer, club captain Reece James and leading centre-back Levi Colwill. 

These players will be looking to make a mark after a busy season capped by winning the Conference League. 

Erling Haaland leads Man City

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden celebrate a Manchester City goal (Credit: Imago)

Manchester City will have the likes of Erling Haaland, Rodri, Phil Foden, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and Omar Marmoush in their squad for the Club World Cup. 

However, Jack Grealish's uncertain future means he will not be participating this time around. 

Global representation 

Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva in action for Brazilian side Fluminense (Credit: Imago)

The tournament will have a broad representation of clubs and players from around the world, drawing interest from fans across the globe. 

Former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva will play for Fluminense, Marcos Rojo and Edinson Cavani will feature for Boca Juniors, 

Edinson Cavani
Edinson Cavani will be involved in the 2025 Club World Cup for Boca Juniors (Credit: Imago)

As the competition develops, fans will witness top-tier football featuring their favourite stars.

Notable absences 

Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo will not be involved at the Club World Cup | Photo/Imago

Cristiano Ronaldo will not be participating, as his team, Al-Nassr, did not secure a spot in the tournament.

However, Al-Hilal, the sole team from Saudi Arabia, features several familiar players, such as Joao Cancelo, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ruben Neves, Renan Lodi and Kalidou Koulibaly.