⚽ Top 5 Football Stars Missing the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
While the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States promises action, drama, and huge prize money — $1 billion, no less — it will also be notable for the absence of some of football’s biggest names. Here are five superstars who won’t be lighting up stadiums across the U.S. this summer.
❌ 1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Despite a stellar campaign in which Mohamed Salah shattered records with 29 goals and 18 assists, the Egyptian forward won’t feature.
Why? Liverpool didn’t qualify, even after winning the English Premier League, due to FIFA’s complex qualification system.
Salah’s absence denies fans the chance to see a possible rematch with PSG, who knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League. Other Liverpool stars like Virgil van Dijk and rising transfer target Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) will also miss the show.
❌ 2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Arguably the most exciting teenager in world football, Lamine Yamal dazzled fans all season with his flair, speed, and vision.
At just 17 years old, Yamal was a Ballon d’Or contender, and many hoped to see him square off with Lionel Messi — his idol — at the Club World Cup. But with Barcelona failing to qualify, the dream clash won’t happen.
Other Barça stars missing include Pedri, Raphinha, and Lewandowski.
❌ 3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, won’t face Messi in the U.S. either.
The Portuguese legend hoped to feature by joining a qualified team, but talks didn’t materialize. FIFA President Gianni Infantino even hinted at a potential move, but Ronaldo stayed loyal to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
“You can’t try and do everything. You can’t catch every ball,” Ronaldo said, confirming he’s staying put — for now.
❌ 4. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
After a trophyless season, Arsenal would have loved a Club World Cup campaign — but it wasn’t to be.
As a result, Bukayo Saka, England’s golden boy, misses another shot at silverware. The 22-year-old has only an FA Cup (2020) to his name and continues to be one of the most consistent performers in world football.
Arsenal’s Champions League run — including a knockout of Real Madrid — showed their growth, but falling short meant missing out on glory, money, and exposure.
❌ 5. Neymar (Santos)
Injuries derailed Neymar’s stint at Al Hilal, and in 2025, he returned to his boyhood club Santos in Brazil.
The 33-year-old forward remains a massive global icon, and his absence is felt both on the pitch and in the box office.
“He’s in the top three of my football generation,” said Brazil teammate Casemiro.
With ticket sales lagging, Neymar’s presence could’ve added major commercial value.
