Since its inception in 2000, the FIFA Club World Cup has been viewed as an alluring test of international dominance for clubs around the globe. For English teams, it’s a prestigious tournament that showcases the power and reach of the Premier League on the world stage.
As the 2024/25 season draws to a close, the stage is set for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will take place in the U.S. from June 14th to July 13th. Manchester City and Chelsea are poised to compete across the pond starting next month, representing English outfits in this year’s edition.
And while gearing up towards the summer clashes, now is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the history of triumphant English clubs in this showcase who have gone on to claim the ultimate title of being “the best football club in the world.”
Manchester United – 2008
The rebranded FIFA Club World Cup made its mark in 2008 when Manchester United became the first English club to lift the prestigious trophy. Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, fresh from winning the 2008 UEFA Champions League, travelled to Japan with confidence, ready to cement their place at the top of the ladder.
In the semi-finals, United showed their strength with a commanding 5-3 victory over Gamba Osaka. The final, however, was a tighter affair, with LDU Quito from Ecuador proving formidable. It took a solitary Wayne Rooney goal to see off the challenge and secure the trophy, marking a milestone for both the club and the Premier League’s increasing dominance on the international stage. While the competition was not as widely received at the time compared to present day, this win laid the groundwork for future English successes.
Liverpool – 2019
Fast forward to 2019, and Liverpool were the next English team to claim the FIFA Club World Cup. Under the leadership of Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool had recently conquered Europe by winning the Champions League, and they travelled to Qatar in search of the elusive global crown.
Their path to victory was not easy. A hard-fought 2-1 semi-final win over Monterrey was followed by an intense 1-0 final victory over Flamengo from Brazil. The match remained goalless until extra time, when Roberto Firmino made his mark, scoring the decisive goal to secure Liverpool’s place in history. This triumph was another feather in Klopp’s cap and solidified Liverpool’s status as one of Europe’s most successful and dominant clubs, both domestically and internationally.
Chelsea – 2021 (Played in 2022)
Chelsea were the next to secure the trophy, but their triumph came with a twist of fate. Having won the Champions League earlier in 2021, they were invited to the 2022 tournament in Abu Dhabi. Under Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea displayed their characteristic tactical discipline, overcoming Al Hilal in the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory.
The final, however, was a more dramatic affair, with Palmeiras providing stiff opposition. After a 1-1 draw in the regular 90 minutes of time, Kai Havertz sealed Chelsea’s victory in extra time with a composed penalty. This win was not just another cup to add to Chelsea’s collection, but it also completed their set of all major trophies on a domestic, continental, and international scale.
Manchester City – 2023
In 2023, Manchester City joined the ranks of English winners of the FIFA Club World Cup, continuing to add to their meteoric achievements in European and English domestic football. Fresh off a historic treble-winning season, Pep Guardiola’s side made light work of the tournament.
In the semi-finals, they dispatched Urawa Red Diamonds 3-0, demonstrating their efficiency and depth. But it was in the final against Brazilian side Fluminense that City truly put the icing on the cake to represent their dominance. A resounding 4-0 win saw Julian Álvarez score twice, while Phil Foden and a Nino own goal completed the rout. Guardiola’s achievement was all the more significant as he became the first manager to win the competition with three different clubs, further solidifying Manchester City’s place among football’s elite.
The Evolution of English Clubs on the World Stage
From Manchester United’s first victory in 2008 to Liverpool’s triumph in 2019 and Chelsea’s hard-fought win in 2022, English clubs have steadily asserted themselves as forces to be reckoned with in world football. But it was the 2023 victory by Manchester City that truly signalled the evolving strength of English teams on the global stage up against Spanish powerhouses in Barcelona and Real Madrid, and Brazilian sides that match the four honours these Premier League teams have collectively claimed.
These wins are more than just a showcase of talent; they reflect the growing influence of the Premier League in shaping the global footballing landscape. Each English victory in the competition not only elevates the club’s stature but also raises the profile of the Premier League as a whole, attracting even more global attention and investment.
For football analysts and fans alike, understanding the patterns of success in this tournament is a strong skill to hold, especially for those looking to shape their practices like value betting or compiling of statistics. By studying the form, tactical approaches, and key player performances, one can identify emerging trends that may be overlooked elsewhere. The evolving nature of global football, marked by strategic shifts and player movements, provides fertile ground for insightful analysis and predictions.
Looking Ahead: City and Chelsea Set to Compete in 2025
With the conclusion of the 2024/25 season all so near, attention will turn to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where Manchester City and Chelsea will once again represent English football on the global stage. This year’s tournament will feature a new format, with 32 teams from six confederations competing for the coveted trophy. The competition promises to be unpredictable, with both teams eager to stake their claim to glory.
