The football world is gearing up for an unprecedented spectacle: the first-ever expanded FIFA Club World Cup. Set to kick off on June 15 in the United States, this reimagined tournament will feature 32 teams from across the globe vying for substantial prize money and ultimate glory.
With its new format, mirroring a summer-long festival of football, the competition promises unpredictability. However, as online bookmakers reveal their favorites, a consistent theme emerges: European powerhouses are overwhelmingly backed to dominate.
This article delves into why familiar European clubs are the top contenders, exploring their strengths, recent performances, and what makes them a strong wager in this groundbreaking event.
Tournament Overview and European Dominance
The revitalized FIFA Club World Cup signifies a significant shift, moving from an annual event to a larger, less frequent tournament held every four years. The expanded format, with 32 global teams participating, features a group stage followed by knockout rounds.
Amidst the excitement for this new structure, there is a clear consensus among oddsmakers: European clubs are the front-runners. The market for the Club World Cup winner is considered highly competitive, yet Real Madrid leads the way in betting odds.
For example, FanDuel soccer odds currently place Real Madrid and Manchester City at the top of the list, underscoring bettor confidence in familiar powerhouses.
This strong European favorability reflects a historical pattern of success for clubs from the continent on the international stage.
Real Madrid: A Dynasty Continues
Real Madrid enters the Club World Cup as joint-favorites, with odds of 9/2 and 5.50, a testament to their unparalleled history in similar formats. No other side has secured more Club World Cup titles than this Spanish giant.
Although the club endured a challenging season leading up to the tournament, they are poised for a new era under former favorite Xabi Alonso, as Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly stepped down to manage Brazil. This transition ushers in an exciting period for the club.
Squad Depth and New Leadership
Under previous management, the team built considerable talent across the field. With key players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. already anchoring the squad, the potential acquisition of Trent Alexander-Arnold could further solidify their starting lineup as arguably the finest in the competition. New recruit Dean Huijsen, a £50 million signing from Bournemouth, may also make his debut for the team in the United States.
Navigating the Knockout Gauntlet
Real Madrid’s group stage draw appears favorable, pitting them against Al Hilal, Salzburg, and Mexican club Pachuca. On paper, the Spanish side is expected to easily top their group, setting up a potential knockout encounter with the second-place team from Group G.
The club has a proven track record against formidable opponents, having previously defeated fellow Club World Cup participants such as Atletico Madrid, Salzburg, and Borussia Dortmund. They also twice overcame Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the Champions League earlier this season.
Manchester City: Seeking Redemption
Manchester City also holds the position of joint-favorites, listed at 9/2 and 4.50, as they aim for their second Club World Cup trophy. The English club qualified following their 2023 Champions League triumph.
They are eager to rebound from a 2024/25 season that ended without domestic silverware. Despite a disappointing league performance and an early exit from the Champions League play-offs, the Citizens are determined to make a significant impression.
Recent Setbacks and Challenges
Manchester City’s recent form against top European sides has raised questions. They were knocked out of the Champions League play-offs, and their domestic league display has been uncharacteristic of their usual high standards.
In the Champions League this season, Juventus secured a 2-0 victory against Guardiola’s team, and Real Madrid have already beaten City twice in the Champions League this season. These results suggest a potentially challenging path ahead for the English side.
The Return of Key Influence
A significant boost for Manchester City comes from the return of influential midfielder Rodri. The Spaniard made his first appearance since September earlier this month, recovering from an ACL injury.
His presence is expected to enhance their chances, particularly as he was awarded the Best Player Award when the Citizens last lifted the Club World Cup trophy in 2023.
Bayern Munich: Bundesliga Might on the Global Stage
Bayern Munich enters the tournament with odds of 13/2 and 6.50, positioning them as strong contenders. The German giants have secured multiple Club World Cup trophies in 2013 and 2020, making them one of only four clubs to achieve this feat.
After reclaiming the Bundesliga title from Bayer Leverkusen in the 2024/25 season and finishing 13 points clear at the summit, Vincent Kompany’s side has demonstrated formidable domestic strength. Harry Kane, who broke his infamous trophy drought this season, also led Germany’s top flight in goals scored.
Paris Saint-Germain: Chasing Historic Quintet
Paris Saint-Germain, listed with 8/1 odds, has enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 campaign, establishing themselves as one of Europe’s most impressive outfits. The Parisian club has already achieved a domestic treble in France and is set to compete against Inter Milan in the Champions League final.
Their participation in the Club World Cup this summer presents an opportunity for a historic quintet of trophies. PSG secured their spot in the tournament as the second-best ranked eligible team in the UEFA four-year ranking.
Chelsea: Inaugural Tournament Experience
Chelsea enters the competition with odds of 9/1, having qualified due to their 2021 Champions League victory. Following that triumph, the West Londoners secured their first Club World Cup.
Despite what has been described as a fairly unsuccessful domestic league display, Chelsea hopes to add a trophy to their season. Enzo Maresca guided the team to a top-four Premier League finish, and they still have a chance for silverware in the Europa Conference League before heading to the USA.
Navigating the Competitive Landscape
The betting market for the Club World Cup is notably competitive, yet Real Madrid consistently leads the way, a strong endorsement given their squad’s overall strength. While the new format introduces an element of unpredictability, the rich history and current form of Europe’s elite clubs make them compelling contenders.
Their experience in high-stakes knockout competitions, particularly the Champions League, provides a significant advantage. Bettors are largely looking towards these familiar European faces, confident in their proven ability to perform under pressure and secure major silverware.
