Real Madrid Confirms Club World Cup Participation Despite Doubts

Real Madrid and manager Carlo Ancelotti have clarified that the Champions League winners will indeed compete in next year’s Club World Cup. Ancelotti’s earlier statement, suggesting otherwise in an interview with Italian newspaper Il Giornale was clarified on Monday. Ancelotti clarified on social media that his words were misconstrued, affirming Real Madrid’s commitment to the tournament. The 65-year-old emphasized his interest in competing for titles with Real Madrid and expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity presented by the Club World Cup.

Real Madrid, already qualified, confirmed their participation, expressing pride and excitement for the tournament. In his interview with Il Giornale, Ancelotti had initially suggested reluctance towards the tournament, citing financial concerns and potential opposition from other clubs.  However, the European Club Association (ECA) distanced itself from Ancelotti’s remarks, emphasizing the importance of participating in such tournaments. Last month, FIFA faced criticism for allegedly not consulting world players’ union Fifpro and the World Leagues Association (WLA) regarding tournament plans.

Amid threats of legal action, Fifpro and the WLA called for a rescheduling of the tournament, highlighting concerns over the football calendar’s strain on players and clubs. FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the tournament, stressing its significance in financing football worldwide and downplaying its impact on club schedules. He urged stakeholders to move past what he termed a “futile debate” and focus on the broader benefits of FIFA-organized competitions.