Lionel Messi have expressed confidence in Inter Miamis ability to compete in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, set for the summer of 2025. Miami’s inclusion in the tournament has been met with some controversywith some suggesting it is a move to raise the tournament’s profile given its staging in the United States, and Inter Miami hosting the opening match.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced Inter Miami’s participation at the end of October 2024, sparking debate. The club will face some of the world’s best teams in a tournament often dominated by European and South American giants.
To talk to TN Sports after Inter Miami’s penalty shootout victory over Club América, Messi expressed his optimism: “The truth is that it is a year of many games, and that Club WC is in june” he said. “We also have a difficult group, and we will fight [to qualify]. We’re going to compete, but first we have to think about what’s coming; we have many games before then.”
Messi also expressed his excitement for the upcoming season, saying: “Well, like I always say, I’m just starting the year. Honestly, I’m starting to feel really, really excited and motivated. Hopefully I can feel good as the year goes on, and it is important to start strong to be in good shape when the official matches come.His return from injury, after a layoff since November, further boosts team morale and anticipation.
Jorge Mas: No controversy, just success
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas echoed Messi’s views, claiming the club’s performances in 2024 fully justified their place in the Club World Cup. In a statement shortly after the tournament lineup was announced, Mas emphasized: “There is no controversy. One of our goals for 2024 was to qualify for the Club World Cup. Especially after winning the Leagues Cup in 2023 and then the Supporters’ Shield and setting the league record for most points.”
Inter Miami face a challenging road to success in the Club World Cup. Their group stage matches will be tough tests against some of the best teams in the world.
But Messi’s confidence and the team’s recent success provide a strong foundation for a competitive show. The team’s success in the coming months will be a major factor in determining their level of readiness for this international tournament.
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