Jamie Carragher questions Chelsea’s spot in the 2025 Club World Cup!

Jamie Carragher questions Chelsea’s spot in the 2025 Club World Cup! 

“They’re in it because of a Champions League win 4 years ago, but how many players or the manager are still there? It feels weird.” 

Jamie Carragher has sparked debate by claiming Chelsea do not deserve their place in the 2025 Club World Cup, set for June 14 to July 13 in the United States. His reasoning centers on the significant changes in Chelsea’s squad and management since their 2021 Champions League victory, which secured their qualification. Carragher argues it feels odd for a team with few remaining players from that triumph, and a different manager, to represent that achievement four years later. He also expressed broader skepticism about the tournament, suggesting it lacks appeal among players, clubs, and fans, and is primarily a financial venture driven by FIFA.  

Chelsea’s inclusion aligns with FIFA’s qualification criteria for the expanded 32 team event, which prioritizes historical success, such as their 2021 title under Thomas Tuchel. Despite the turnover, with key figures like Kai Havertz and Jorginho no longer at the club, Chelsea’s current squad, led by Enzo Maresca, is performing well, potentially making them competitive. The tournament offers significant prize money and global exposure, which Chelsea reportedly value, with former captain John Terry voicing enthusiasm. Young players like Andrey Santos could also benefit from the stage.  

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Carragher’s comments reflect a sentiment shared by some, particularly Liverpool fans, as their club missed out on qualification. Critics of the tournament cite its timing, coming soon after a grueling European season, raising concerns about player fatigue. However, Chelsea fans and the club see it as a chance to compete for a prestigious title. While Carragher’s point about squad discontinuity is fair, FIFA’s rules focus on past achievements, making Chelsea’s participation legitimate. The debate underscores broader tensions about the tournament’s relevance and scheduling in modern football.