The inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States kicks off this weekend with a massive US$1 billion prize pool but will do so without some of the sport’s biggest names. Due to the tournament’s unique qualification structure, several elite players and their clubs will be watching from afar.
Here are five major stars who won’t feature:
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Despite finishing the season as English champions, Liverpool didn’t qualify due to FIFA’s complex qualification process.
That means Egyptian icon Mohamed Salah who registered a record 29 goals and 18 assists in the Premier League won’t be showcasing his talents on American soil. Along with Salah, teammates Virgil van Dijk and Alisson also miss out, denying fans a potential rematch with PSG, who knocked them out of Europe.
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Barcelona’s 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal has lit up La Liga with his dazzling dribbles and fearless play. Tipped as a Ballon d’Or contender and likened to Lionel Messi, Yamal would have been a major attraction at the tournament. However, with Barcelona missing out, fans are also deprived of seeing Pedri, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski in action.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo will be absent after his club Al Nassr failed to qualify. Despite FIFA president Gianni Infantino hinting at talks to bring him to the tournament via a qualified team, Ronaldo confirmed he’s staying put. “Some teams reached out… but you can’t catch every ball,” said the Portugal legend, who recently won the Nations League.
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Arsenal impressed in Europe but fell just short of Club World Cup qualification. Winger Bukayo Saka, one of England’s top talents, misses another chance at major silverware. Having only an FA Cup medal from 2020, Saka and his teammates including Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice will be disappointed not to be part of the tournament’s lucrative and competitive environment.
- Neymar (Santos)
After a tough injury spell at Al Hilal, Neymar returned to boyhood club Santos in early 2025. Though recovering fitness ahead of the World Cup, the Brazilian superstar’s absence is a commercial blow. “He’s still in the top three of my football generation,” said Brazil teammate Casemiro. Organisers were reportedly hopeful of Neymar’s presence to boost ticket sales but he’ll be watching from the sidelines.
The absence of these high-profile players will certainly be felt, but the tournament still promises world-class action with stars like Lionel Messi, Vinícius Jr., and Erling Haaland all set to shine on the global stage.