How Does The FIFA Club World Cup Impacts Transfers?

How Does The FIFA Club World Cup Impacts Transfers?

The FIFA Club World Cup has become a topic of the discussion as of late. With the season coming to end for the majority of clubs, a select few will have an extended campaign with the chance to win some silverware.

Having been launched in 2000, the competition has undergone a format change which has come into effect for the 2025 campaign.

The expanded 32 team tournament will take place in June in a number of different venues across the globe such as Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Oceania.

One month until the USA welcomes the world. 🇺🇸🏆#TakeItToTheWorld | #FIFACWC

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) May 14, 2025

With issues like as scheduling, competition overload and the health of the players coming to the forefront, another problem that arises for clubs competing in the tournament regards new signings.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transfer from Liverpool to Real Madrid has highlighted the issue regarding the Club World Cup.

The English right-back has an agreement in place with Real Madrid to join the club following the expiration of his contract.

However, Alexander-Arnold’s contract doesn’t expire until June 30th, 15 days after the beginning of the tournament - meaning he would be unavailable to play for Los Blancos.

How Does This Affect Club Transfers?

If Real Madrid wish to have their new arrival join the squad in time for the Club World Cup then they will need to find a financial agreement with Liverpool for an early release from his contract, despite the original transfer not involving a fee.

🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid will pay Liverpool €2M for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

He will join BEFORE the Club World Cup. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/GFMyyWnefi

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) May 16, 2025

This presents a difficulty for clubs trying to operate in the transfer market throughout the month of June and July, with clubs more hesitant to lose players than ever due to benefits received from winning the competition and ‘free transfers’ no longer being free.

The winner of the Club World Cup could earn a staggering £125 million in prize money.

In comparison Manchester City received £175.9 million for winning the Premier League during the 2023/24 campaign.