Forget Messi, he's too old — Njitap claims Inter Miami stand no chance at Club World Cup

Geremi Njitap has expressed doubts about Inter Miami’s chances of clinching the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, citing Lionel Messi’s age as a key factor.

Speaking to Boyle Sports, via GOAL, Geremi highlighted that Messi, now past his prime, faces tough competition from clubs with players at their peak, diminishing the Herons’ prospects.

“Lionel Messi is no longer young, and while playing for Inter Miami, he isn’t surrounded by great players like he has been in the past.

"He is going to come up against great clubs who have great players in the peak of their careers, he might well perform at a high level but does he have a chance of winning it? I don’t think so.

He is Messi, and he will still show his quality, but to the level we have seen him in the past? I don’t think we will,” Geremi said.

Inter Miami earned their Club World Cup berth by securing the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield.

Despite Messi’s continued brilliance in Major League Soccer, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who turns 38 this month, is considered beyond his peak.

In Group A, Inter Miami are drawn alongside Al Ahly, Palmeiras, and Porto, and may rely on home advantage to see them through.

The tournament starts on the 14th of June, with Inter Miami hosting Al Ahly in the opening game.