Excitement Brewing for Club World Cup
Former Manchester City player Joleon Lescott, who has experienced significant tournaments in his football career, reflects on the upcoming Club World Cup, expressing thoughts on how his previous team might feel about it alongside the other 32 participating teams.
“It’s hard not to feel excitement,” Lescott mentioned. “This is a chance to make history, to be the first team to win. There’s been chatter about game overloads and such, but once you’re out there, that competitive spirit takes over. Everyone is in it to win.”
This week, Lescott was in Lower Manhattan for an event called “Flavor of the City,” hosted by Manchester City, in anticipation of the revamped Club World Cup.
The Premier League giant is one of the big names in this newly structured tournament, where winners will take home a share of the $1 billion prize, with $125 million allocated for the champions.
Previously, the Club World Cup occurred annually each December but operated at a smaller scale.
The updated format has increased the number of teams and moved the event to June, coinciding with the typical offseason for European clubs and positioning it as a grander spectacle on the football calendar.
“From a player’s standpoint, there’s excitement. The preseason is nearing, and there are matches to play. Competing in a spirited way builds momentum,” Lescott noted. “This also creates openings for new players. I think FIFA’s expanded registration window is a smart move. It allows new players a chance to make an impression, and they’ll be eager to win fans over.”
The tournament also highlights the intersection of American sports culture and football—an interesting blend heading towards next year’s World Cup. Interest in football has been rising, especially in the U.S., though the sport still faces challenges breaking through in other regions.
FIFA is making efforts to draw in American sports fans, with broadcast partner Dazn streaming every match for free during the tournament.
Lescott, who has played 26 times for the England national team and over 100 games for Manchester City during his career, sees the growth of American football as promising. “It’s certainly as popular now,” he stated, “but the pace of its growth varies. What matters is that more people are playing, discussing, and enjoying the game. Sometimes, I feel the defenses of football don’t get enough credit either.”
He added, “I’ve grown to understand the sport better, and it’s a positive direction for everyone.”
Manchester City is set to kick off its tournament against Morocco’s Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday.
