Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has stated that the club will not participate in the expanded Club World Cup next year, citing financial reasons.
In an interview with Italian newspaper Il Giornale, Ancelotti mentioned that a single Real Madrid match is worth 20 million euros, while FIFA is offering only 20 million euros for the entire tournament. He also hinted that other clubs may refuse the invitation due to the congested calendar and low financial offer.
This decision comes as English players’ union warns of a potential strike due to the added matches to an already packed schedule. The expanded Club World Cup is proposed to take place next summer, featuring 32 teams.
Ancelotti’s stance may spark a debate about the priorities of clubs and players, as well as the financial dynamics of international tournaments.
