On 28/6, Klopp called the Club World Cup "the worst idea ever implemented in football," arguing that it would add further strain to an already packed schedule for players. The former German manager views the change in the tournament's format as the worst idea ever implemented in football.
Klopp's viewpoint came shortly after Red Bull Salzburg, a team belonging to the corporation where he currently serves as Director of Football, was eliminated in Group H. Klopp previously participated in and won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2019 while managing Liverpool. At that time, the tournament had not yet changed its format and expanded from 7 to 32 teams as it is now.
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Klopp won the 2019 Club World Cup with Liverpool. Photo: Reuters |
Klopp won the 2019 Club World Cup with Liverpool. Photo: Reuters
"I didn't expect Jurgen to do that, because I respect him a lot", said Stoichkov, the 1994 Ballon d'Or-winning Barca legend. "When Liverpool played in the Club World Cup and received money, they didn't complain. We need to respect this tournament".
Raphinha also criticized the Club World Cup, arguing that players should not sacrifice their summer break for a new tournament they are forced to play in without being consulted. Barca, Raphinha's club, is absent from the Club World Cup due to insufficient points accumulated in the UEFA rankings.
Regarding Raphinha's viewpoint, Stoichkov acknowledged that players are participating in many tournaments. However, the Barca legend defended the Club World Cup by pointing out that football today allows 5 substitutions in 90 minutes, two more than before, not to mention additional substitutions in extra time. He also criticized players for not reacting to the expansion of the Champions League, or cup competitions such as the Copa del Rey, FA Cup, and League Cup.
"They complain about the Club World Cup, but don't complain when they earn 20 million USD a year", Stoichkov added. "For me, everything has been carefully considered. I hope this tournament continues because football is a joy for everyone".
Under the new format, the Club World Cup will take place every four years. Participating teams are continental champions or those with the highest accumulated points in the continental rankings. The tournament has one exception for the host nation. This year, Inter Miami, the 2024 Supporters' Shield champions (one of two MLS season titles), represents the host nation, the US.
