The 2025 Club World Cup in the United States is poised to feature some of the world’s premier football talent, with renowned clubs like Manchester City, PSG, and Real Madrid in attendance. However, it’s also significant that numerous star players from other esteemed teams will be missing from this eagerly awaited tournament. With just 12 European clubs qualifying, some high-profile omissions have occurred, including familiar names like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Liverpool.
Here’s a glance at nine key players who will not be participating in the Club World Cup this summer, along with their narratives.
Cristiano Ronaldo
It’s nearly impossible to envision a major football event without Cristiano Ronaldo, yet this year’s Club World Cup will be without the iconic forward. FIFA President Gianni Infantino likely felt the impact, as Ronaldo has long been a star attraction in international competitions. His switch to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia did not yield the silverware necessary to make his presence a marketing triumph. As Lionel Messi prepares to take the field with Inter Miami, Ronaldo will be enjoying a much-deserved break. At 40, stepping away from the relentless grind—especially in the challenging Saudi heat—could prove beneficial.
Lamine Yamal
For Hansi Flick and Barcelona, a pause in action comes as a relief. Yamal, the exceptionally gifted 17-year-old, has already racked up 62 appearances and over 4,000 minutes on the pitch this season. The toll on such a young athlete could have dire consequences, particularly with injury issues plaguing his teammates like Ansu Fati and Pedri. Taking a few weeks off could aid in his recovery while preserving his bright potential for the future.
Neymar
Had Neymar chosen to remain with Al Hilal, he would have undoubtedly featured in the Club World Cup this summer. Instead, he returned to Santos, seeking to overcome a series of injuries and regain peak form. While this recovery journey may not attract as much attention as the international stage, it might be precisely what he needs for a resurgence ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool has solidified its status in European football over recent years, yet the team will not participate in the Club World Cup due to a rule limiting associations to two clubs. As the highest-ranked club missing out, Salah’s absence stands out markedly. Following an impressive season where he scored 29 goals in the Premier League, Salah now has the opportunity for a well-deserved break to recharge for future challenges.
Florian Wirtz
Wirtz has become the center of attention amidst rumors of a potential record-breaking transfer to Liverpool, yet he finds himself absent from the Club World Cup even had he remained with Bayer Leverkusen. Despite his team clinching the Bundesliga last season, their lack of European success means that Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund will represent Germany instead. This time off will allow Wirtz to recuperate and gear up for his anticipated move to the Premier League.
Raphinha
After a remarkable year at Barcelona, where he achieved 34 goals and 25 assists, Brazilian international Raphinha emerged as a prime contender for the Ballon d’Or, making his absence from the Club World Cup particularly significant. His rising star status has created high expectations, and while it may sting to watch from the sidelines, he will have the opportunity to continue advancing his career in the upcoming season.
Virgil van Dijk
Once seen as a shadow of his former self following an ACL injury, van Dijk has bounced back to reclaim his top form under Liverpool’s management, proving to be a cornerstone of their defense. His strong performances this season have showcased the resurgence that fans have longed to see. With the Dutch national team commitments completed, he can now take a moment to rest and prepare for Liverpool’s title defense ahead.
Alexander Isak
Isak has made waves in the Premier League, netting 23 goals last season and establishing himself as one of the leading strikers alongside Erling Haaland. With interest growing from major clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, Isak’s absence from the tournament means he can recharge for what promises to be a crucial season for Newcastle in the Champions League.
Pedri
Pedri has emerged as one of the finest young midfielders in the world. Following an impressive 2024-25 season, he is set to be a vital player for Barcelona in the future. His absence from the Club World Cup offers a much-needed chance for rest—a time to recover and get ready for upcoming challenges as he aims to solidify his status among the game’s elite.
In a tournament that highlights the crème de la crème, the absence of these players creates a bittersweet narrative. While many will miss the chance to illuminate such a prestigious platform, it provides a moment for them to regroup and return even stronger in their domestic leagues and beyond. Sometimes, a break can be just as important as game day; these athletes will be poised to deliver their best when the opportunity arises.
Image Source: Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock
