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Football Weekly Is football ready for the Club World Cup? Football Weekly Extra
24 snips
Jun 12, 2025 Nick Ames, a knowledgeable journalist and commentator, teams up with Paul Watson, an insightful contributor focused on global football leagues, to explore the upcoming Club World Cup. They tackle the new 32-team format and the complex political implications of hosting in the U.S. Concerns about player fatigue and scheduling arise, alongside the contrasting views between European skepticism and South American enthusiasm. The duo also highlights lesser-known clubs, such as Mamelodi Sundowns, and the financial intricacies impacting their journey in the tournament.
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Club World Cup's Political Burden
- The Club World Cup feels more like an ordeal than a celebration from a British/European perspective.
- Its association with US immigration enforcement and political issues burdens the tournament heavily.
Prize Money Skews Smaller Leagues
- The Club World Cup's huge prize money will significantly skew leagues outside Europe.
- Smaller clubs like Auckland City getting millions could unbalance their domestic competitions.
Auckland City's Semi-Pro Reality
- Auckland City's players are semi-professional with day jobs and struggle to get time off for the tournament.
- Their coach runs a dental practice, highlighting the stark contrast with large wealthy clubs.