The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, hosted across 12 U.S. venues from June 14 to July 13, is set to be the grandest edition yet, featuring 32 elite clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Inter Miami. With a $1 billion prize pool and global stars converging, this tournament offers American fans a rare chance to see world-class talent live. Whether you’re cheering at Hard Rock Stadium or streaming on DAZN, these 10 players are poised to steal the show. From legends like Lionel Messi to breakout stars like Estevao, here’s our definitive list of the top FIFA Club World Cup players to watch, backed by stats, stories, and insights.
Why the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Matters
Before diving into the players, let’s set the stage. The FIFA Club World Cup has evolved from a niche seven-team event to a 32-team spectacle, rivaling the UEFA Champions League in star power. Hosted in cities like Miami, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles, the tournament features giants from every confederation, including CONMEBOL’s Flamengo, CAF’s Al Ahly, and MLS’s Inter Miami. Despite criticism over fixture congestion from FIFPRO, the players’ union, the event’s $1 billion purse ensures clubs are fielding their strongest squads.
This list is curated based on players’ 2024-25 season form, Club World Cup history, and potential impact. We’ve included veterans with proven pedigrees and young talents ready to break out, ensuring a mix that appeals to casual fans and soccer nerds alike.
1. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Position: Forward
Age: 37
Club World Cup Appearances: 5 (3 titles with Barcelona)
Why He’s Here: The greatest ever, still dazzling in MLS.
No FIFA Club World Cup list is complete without Lionel Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, now 37, leads Inter Miami into their debut tournament as hosts. Messi’s 2024 MLS season was electric—23 goals and 13 assists in 25 appearances, earning Inter Miami the Supporters’ Shield. His five Club World Cup goals in five games with Barcelona (2009, 2011, 2015) include iconic moments like the chested goal against Estudiantes in 2009.
Messi’s free-kick mastery and playmaking remain unmatched, as seen in his 50th career goal for Miami against Porto in the group stage. Facing Al Ahly and Palmeiras in Group A, he’ll look to guide the Herons deep into the knockouts. Off the pitch, his presence is boosting U.S. soccer’s global appeal, with FIFA banking on the “Messi factor” to elevate the tournament. Expect him to shine at Hard Rock Stadium.
Fun Fact: Messi turns 38 during the tournament, but his MLS form suggests age is just a number.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Position: Forward
Age: 26
Club World Cup Appearances: 0
Why He’s Here: La Liga’s top scorer, hungry for global glory.
Kylian Mbappé’s Real Madrid move in 2024 was the transfer of the decade, and he’s already delivered. The 26-year-old Frenchman led La Liga in goals during the 2024-25 season and won the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and UEFA Super Cup. His blistering pace and clinical finishing make him a nightmare for defenders, as evidenced by his hat-trick heroics in the 2022 World Cup final.
Mbappé’s Club World Cup debut comes with Real Madrid, the tournament’s most successful club with five titles. In Group H against Pachuca, he’s already scored, showcasing his ability to exploit tight defenses. Under coach Xabi Alonso, Mbappé’s role as a central striker could see him chase the Golden Boot. American fans in Charlotte and D.C. will witness a generational talent at his peak.
Stat Spotlight: Mbappé’s 2024-25 season: 30+ goals across all competitions.
3. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Position: Forward
Age: 31
Club World Cup Appearances: 0
Why He’s Here: Bundesliga’s Golden Boot winner, finally a champion.
Harry Kane’s 2024-25 season was a career-defining one. After years of near-misses with Tottenham, the English striker won his first major trophy as Bayern Munich claimed the Bundesliga. Kane’s 36 goals in 34 matches earned him a second consecutive Golden Boot, cementing his status as one of Europe’s deadliest finishers. His work rate and link-up play add another dimension to Bayern’s attack.
In Group C, Kane faces Boca Juniors and Auckland City, offering chances to pad his stats before tougher knockout ties. His eight Champions League goals this season suggest he thrives on big stages. U.S. fans, especially in Atlanta, will see why Kane’s hailed as a complete No. 9.
Quote: “USA, here we come. One goal. 🏆” — Harry Kane on X, June 13, 2025.
4. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Position: Forward
Age: 24
Club World Cup Appearances: 1 (2023 winner)
Why He’s Here: A goal-scoring machine with CWC experience.
Erling Haaland is Manchester City’s battering ram. The Norwegian striker, 24, scored 22 goals in 31 Premier League matches in 2024-25, finishing third in the scoring race despite a “down year.” His eight Champions League goals in nine games underline his knack for big moments. Haaland’s 2023 Club World Cup performance helped City claim their first title, and he’s eyeing a repeat as the defending champions.
In Group G against Juventus and Al Ain, Haaland’s physicality and finishing will be key. His 6-0 rout of Al Ain, where he scored twice, showed his hunger. Fans in Philadelphia and Orlando can expect goals galore from the former European Golden Boot winner.
Fun Fact: Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge, played for Manchester City in the early 2000s.
5. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Position: Winger
Age: 28
Club World Cup Appearances: 0
Why He’s Here: Champions League hero, in career-best form.
Ousmane Dembélé is the 2025 Ballon d’Or frontrunner for a reason. The French winger’s 33 goals and 15 assists in 49 matches for PSG in 2024-25, including a two-assist masterclass in the Champions League final, have silenced doubters. His dribbling and vision make him PSG’s X-factor in Group F against Botafogo and Inter Miami.
Dembélé’s upset loss to Botafogo (1-0) showed PSG’s reliance on him to unlock defenses. With matches in Pasadena and Miami, he’ll look to rebound. American fans will love his flair, especially after his dynamic MLS All-Star Game cameo in 2024.
Stat Spotlight: Dembélé’s 2024-25: 48 direct goal involvements (G+A).
6. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)
Position: Winger
Age: 24
Club World Cup Appearances: 1 (2022 winner)
Why He’s Here: Ballon d’Or runner-up, electric on the wing.
Vinicius Jr.’s 2024-25 season was stellar—21 goals and 15 assists in 52 matches for Real Madrid, plus a joint-fourth eight assists in La Liga. The Brazilian’s dribbling and pace terrorize defenses, earning him a 2024 Ballon d’Or runner-up spot. His Club World Cup experience includes Real’s 2022 title, where he scored in the final.
In Group H, Vinicius’s flair was evident in Real’s 3-1 win over Pachuca, setting up Jude Bellingham’s goal. His chemistry with Mbappé could make Real unstoppable. Fans in Charlotte will see why he’s called “Vini Magic.”
Quote: “Vinicius is unplayable on his day.” — Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid coach.
7. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Age: 23
Club World Cup Appearances: 1 (2021 winner)
Why He’s Here: PFA Young Player of the Year, clutch performer.
Cole Palmer’s rise from Manchester City’s academy to Chelsea’s talisman is remarkable. The 23-year-old Englishman’s 22 goals and 11 assists in 33 Premier League matches in 2024-25 earned him the PFA Young Player of the Year award. His “Cold Palmer” celebration is a fan favorite, and his UEFA Conference League title in May 2025 ended Chelsea’s trophy drought.
In Group E, Palmer faces Flamengo, where his composure was tested in a 3-1 loss. His knack for penalties and long-range screamers could turn ties in Chelsea’s favor. U.S. fans in Philadelphia will adore his cool-headed brilliance.
Fun Fact: Palmer’s 2021 CWC medal came as a City squad player.
8. Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
Position: Forward
Age: 25
Club World Cup Appearances: 1 (2023 winner)
Why He’s Here: “Completed football” with 17 trophies.
Julián Álvarez is a winner. The Argentine’s 29 goals and seven assists in 54 matches for Atlético Madrid in 2024-25 followed a treble with Manchester City and World Cup glory. His 2023 Club World Cup performance, leading City’s attack, earned him the tournament’s top goal contributor award.
In Group F, Álvarez faces PSG and Botafogo, where his versatility as a No. 9 or second striker shines. His goal against Botafogo showed his poacher’s instinct. Fans in Pasadena will see why he’s nicknamed “Spider.”
Stat Spotlight: Álvarez’s 17 trophies include every major club and international title.
9. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
Position: Forward
Age: 27
Club World Cup Appearances: 0
Why He’s Here: Inter’s record foreign scorer, World Cup hero.
Lautaro Martínez is Inter Milan’s heartbeat. The Argentine’s 2024-25 season included 20+ goals, building on his Copa América final heroics. As Inter’s highest-scoring foreign player ever, he thrives in big moments, from Champions League finals to World Cup deciders.
In Group B against LAFC and Wydad Casablanca, Martínez’s hold-up play and finishing will be crucial. His physicality suits the U.S.’s fast-paced pitches. Fans in Nashville and Orlando will witness a striker at his prime.
Quote: “Lautaro lives for the big stage.” — Inter coach Simone Inzaghi.
10. Estevao Willian (Palmeiras)
Position: Winger
Age: 18
Club World Cup Appearances: 0
Why He’s Here: Brazil’s next superstar, Chelsea-bound.
Estevao Willian, known as “Messinho,” is the wildcard. The 18-year-old winger’s dribbling and pace drew $75 million from Chelsea, who loaned him back to Palmeiras for the CWC. His 10 goals in Brazil’s Serie A in 2024 mark him as South America’s brightest talent.
In Group A with Inter Miami, Estevao’s flair could outshine even Messi. His draw against Miami (2-2) showed his fearlessness. Fans in Miami will see the future of Brazilian soccer before he joins Chelsea in 2025-26.
Fun Fact: Estevao’s transfer clause ensured his CWC participation.
Honorable Mentions
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Jhon Arias (Fluminense): The Colombian winger’s 14 goals in 2024 and 2023 CWC Bronze Ball make him a dark horse.
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António Silva (Benfica): The 21-year-old Portuguese center-back’s composure draws Europe’s top clubs.
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Kenan Yıldız (Juventus): The 20-year-old Turk’s nine goals in 2024-25 include long-range stunners.
How These Players Were Chosen
Our list prioritizes:
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Form: 2024-25 season stats across leagues and competitions.
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Impact: Proven ability in high-stakes games (e.g., Champions League, World Cup).
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Storylines: Players with compelling narratives, like Messi’s homecoming or Estevao’s breakout.
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U.S. Appeal: Stars likely to resonate with American fans, from MLS heroes to Premier League icons.
Sources include FIFA’s official site, ESPN, Al Jazeera, and The Athletic, ensuring accuracy and depth.
Tips for Watching the FIFA Club World Cup
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Where to Watch: DAZN streams all 63 matches, with select games on ESPN and local broadcasters.
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Key Dates: Group stage (June 14-26), Round of 16 (June 28-30), Final (July 13 at MetLife Stadium).
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Fantasy Game: Try Club World Cup Fantasy, targeting premium picks like Messi and Mbappé.
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Venues: Catch games in Miami, Atlanta, or Philadelphia for a live experience.
Why This Tournament Is a Must-Watch
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup isn’t just a soccer tournament—it’s a cultural moment for the U.S. With 3.7 million fans expected across 11 cities, it’s a prelude to the 2026 World Cup. Stars like Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland will light up pitches, while young guns like Estevao hint at soccer’s future. Despite heatwave concerns and scheduling debates, the talent on display is undeniable.
So, grab your jersey, stream on DAZN, or head to a stadium. These 10 players are ready to make history, and you won’t want to miss it.