Lionel Messi aims Club World Cup record victory as he prepares to compete in the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup tournament, starting June 15 in the United States. The Argentine star will lead Inter Miami, a club invited to the competition despite not qualifying through traditional continental championships, drawing attention ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the US.
This revamped Club World Cup features 32 teams worldwide, including leading clubs like Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich. Inter Miami’s presence has sparked debate because they secured their spot by winning the MLS Supporters’ Shield rather than the expected MLS Cup, a decision that raised eyebrows but was supported by some football insiders.
Why Inter Miami’s Inclusion Matters for the Tournament
David Beckham’s franchise earned its participation through the Supporters’ Shield, which was anticipated to be reserved for the MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy. Despite this controversy, Messi’s former Argentina teammate Sergio Aguero emphasized that having Messi in the competition significantly enhances its appeal.
Aguero highlighted the importance of Messi’s involvement for global fans and the tournament’s success, especially so close to the US-hosted World Cup. He noted that Messi’s presence draws attention and brings excitement, boosting the profile of the event and benefiting Inter Miami’s profile in world football.
“Well, I think this is something that is quite important for Inter Miami, and especially knowing that Leo is there.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Player
“There is Leo… Although it may be painful for some, he is one of the players that everyone wants to see.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Player
“So, I think that it will be great to see Inter Miami compete against the other teams, and especially see the Inter Miami version of Messi, who is accomplishing everything now in MLS, and they won a title that, for a number of years [they hadn’t], or I don’t know if they have ever won anything.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Player
Messi’s Past Success and Current Challenges at the Global Stage
Messi holds three Club World Cup titles earned with Barcelona in 2009, 2011, and 2015. While he may no longer be in his peak competitive years, Aguero expressed confidence in Messi’s ability to influence matches for Inter Miami on football’s world stage.
The former Manchester City icon noted Messi’s competitive spirit and knack for decisive moments, regardless of game duration or current form. Aguero cautioned opponents to remain vigilant, as Messi can change the course of a game with unexpected skill or a vital goal even in late minutes.
“Because, ultimately, he is the best player in the world and he is the player that can, at any time, hurt you because he is the best.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Player
“And I think that for Inter Miami, and Leo most of all, this new challenge, knowing him, he will try to do his very best because he will not want, same as with anything else, to lose at all.”
—Sergio Aguero, Former Argentina Player
Star-Studded Competition Highlights the Absence of Ronaldo
The Club World Cup will feature other top football stars alongside Messi, including Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Ousmane Dembele. However, a notable absence this year is Cristiano Ronaldo, whose team Al Nassr failed to qualify for the tournament.
Ronaldo’s absence presents Messi with an opportunity to gain an advantage in their long-standing rivalry at this particular competition. Ronaldo, a four-time Club World Cup winner with Manchester United and Real Madrid, leads the competition’s scoring charts with seven goals, two more than Messi’s five in five appearances.
Messi’s Quest to Surpass Ronaldo in Club World Cup Records
By competing in the full group stage matches against Al Ahly, Porto, and Palmeiras, Messi has a strong chance to add to his goal tally and titles, potentially setting a new record in this global tournament. Ronaldo’s four titles and top-scoring record represent a high benchmark, but Messi’s consistent impact in this competition keeps the contest between these football legends alive.
This year’s Club World Cup marks a significant milestone in football history, with a revamped format and expanded lineup of teams from across multiple continents, creating fresh opportunities for players like Messi to deepen their legacies. The tournament’s outcome is expected to influence perceptions ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup hosted in the United States.