The loss of Barcelona to PSG in the Champions League has led to their exclusion from next year’s expanded Club World Cup. Taking place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, the tournament will feature a new format that occurs every four years and includes 32 teams.
Despite initially qualifying, Atletico Madrid will take Barcelona’s place in the tournament due to the elimination of the latter. Other big clubs such as Manchester United, Liverpool, and AC Milan also failed to qualify due to limitations on the number of entrants per country.
Among the 12 European teams that have secured their spots in the tournament are Chelsea, Real Madrid, Man City, Bayern, PSG, Inter, Porto, Dortmund, Benfica, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid. Brazilian teams Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Fluminense are also set to participate. Additionally, Argentinean sides River Plate and Boca Juniors will be present.
The tournament will include Seattle Sounders as well as Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal and Japanese club Urawa Red Diamonds. Notable absences include Inter Miami with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr team.