Many former players participated, but Manchester United was absent from the last FIFA Club World Cup. This absence frustrated many and contributed to FIFA reevaluating the tournament’s format.
As reported earlier, top European clubs, including United, did not qualify under the 32-team format.
However, this may soon change.
According to The Guardian, UEFA is ready to support FIFA’s plan to increase the Club World Cup to 48 teams starting in the 2029 edition.
This change in attitude comes as relations between UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and FIFA President Gianni Infantino improve, with a mutual agreement that the tournament will not shift to a biennial schedule.
Last year’s 32-team format excluded major European clubs like Manchester United, Barcelona, and Liverpool, prompting discussions within FIFA about expanding the tournament.
Expanding to 48 clubs is likely to boost UEFA’s representation from 12 to 16 teams, increasing the chances for traditional European clubs to participate again.
The event’s financial potential is significant, as Chelsea made £85 million from a £774 million prize pool last year.
For Manchester United, returning to this tournament would provide both competitive and financial benefits.
The club is working to consistently secure a position in the UEFA Champions League while making changes at the board level, so joining a lucrative global tournament aligns with their goals.
Spain and Morocco are currently the top contenders to host the 2029 edition, which will take place a year before the 2030 men’s World Cup.
Although details are still being finalized and UEFA has not officially commented, the trend suggests that an expanded format could lead to Manchester United’s participation.
After missing out previously, a return to the global arena might be on the horizon.