As the FIFA Club World Cup shifts into its knockout phase, excitement is building around three storylines that could define this revamped global tournament: Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé is still a question mark for their round of 16 clash, Chelsea's new signing Liam Delap is turning heads, and Lionel Messi is set for an emotional return against PSG.
Real Madrid's Mbappé Mystery
Coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that Mbappé, last season's top scorer, missed all three group-stage matches due to acute gastroenteritis. Although the French forward has resumed training, he was left out of the 3-0 victory over RB Salzburg, highlighting the balance Madrid must strike between ambition and caution. With a lawsuit against PSG over alleged moral harassment and a €55 million wage dispute in the background, Mbappé's fitness is now the biggest subplot in Madrid's quest for a first Club World Cup title.
Chelsea's Rising Star: Liam Delap
Meanwhile, Chelsea players hit the training pitch in Miami ahead of Saturday's round of 16 encounter with Benfica in Charlotte. Delap, acquired for £30 million from Ipswich Town earlier this month, marked his debut scoring in Tuesday's 3-0 win over Esperance de Tunis. The forward's seamless adjustment brings a timely boost, especially as Nicolas Jackson serves a suspension following his red card in the Flamengo tie.
Messi's Reunion with PSG
On Sunday, Inter Miami will face Lionel Messi's former club PSG in Atlanta. Fresh off PSG's 5-0 Champions League final triumph over Inter Milan, Messi meets his old teammates and Barcelona coach-turned-PSG boss Luis Enrique for the first time since leaving the club in 2023. Fans will be watching closely to see if Messi can turn history in his favor at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Club World Cup round of 16 kicks off this Saturday, setting the stage for intense matchups, breakout performances, and emotional reunions across the tournament's new global format.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
