Fresh off their triumphant UEFA Champions League victory in Munich, Paris Saint-Germain has touched down in Los Angeles to begin final preparations for their much-anticipated debut in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament, which kicks off in the United States this week, is set to be the largest and most lucrative edition ever held, with a prize pool of $1 billion and the winning team standing to earn up to $125 million.
The French giants landed on American soil Tuesday, arriving in California less than two weeks after lifting their first-ever Champions League trophy. They are now focusing their attention on conquering the Club World Cup, a newly expanded competition featuring 32 of the top clubs from around the globe.
“It’s a Unique Competition” – Luis Enrique
Speaking shortly after the team’s arrival, PSG head coach Luis Enrique expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete in what he called a “historic” event.
“Nice feeling because it’s a unique competition, a new competition,” Enrique told reporters in Los Angeles. “We’re happy to be here. Now, it’s moment to rest. First Club World Cup, it’s amazing. We are looking forward to training and to competing next week.”
Paris Saint-Germain will play its first two Group B matches at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. The club’s tournament debut is set for Sunday, when they face off against Spain’s Atletico Madrid, a familiar Champions League rival.
Following that, PSG will meet Brazilian club Botafogo on June 19, before wrapping up group stage play with a match against Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer on June 24 in Seattle.
Superstars Converge in the U.S. for Club World Cup Glory
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup—hosted for the first time in the United States—is expected to deliver world-class football across American cities, as top European and international teams compete for global supremacy. Some of the most prominent clubs in modern football are featured in the tournament, including Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich.
Fans in the U.S. will have the rare opportunity to see a constellation of global superstars up close. Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Erling Haaland are all expected to feature prominently for their respective clubs, while PSG’s Champions League-winning squad will look to carry its momentum into this tournament.
Real Madrid Reinforces Early as Others Battle Fatigue
In preparation for the Club World Cup, Real Madrid made headlines by securing the early signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold, ensuring his availability for the tournament. Midfield sensation Jude Bellingham, who recently led Madrid to a domestic double, has reportedly postponed a planned shoulder surgery to participate.
On the other hand, Manchester City arrives at the tournament facing fatigue after a turbulent and trophyless season. Despite setbacks, City forward Phil Foden dismissed concerns about the team’s motivation.
“We’ve been mentally drained this season, yes, but we’re professionals,” Foden said. “This is still a major trophy, and it’s the Club World Cup—everyone wants to win it. The players are up for it.”
A $1 Billion Incentive: Why Clubs Are Taking It Seriously
If bragging rights weren’t enough, FIFA has further incentivized the Club World Cup with unprecedented financial rewards. The total prize pool stands at $1 billion, with the champions expected to take home a staggering $125 million—a significant payday that has turned heads in boardrooms and locker rooms alike.
Sources close to several participating clubs say the financial component has fueled serious internal planning, with squads training intensively and front offices making last-minute reinforcements to optimize their chances.
“It’s not just prestige anymore,” one tournament official told reporters. “The Club World Cup has entered a new era where financial stakes are as high as sporting ones.”
U.S. Gets Dress Rehearsal for 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is also being seen as a critical test run for American cities that will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. Stadiums, fan zones, transportation, and security infrastructure will be evaluated during the month-long competition.
Venues like the Rose Bowl in California and Lumen Field in Seattle will provide FIFA a glimpse into logistical operations ahead of the biggest sporting event in the world in 2026.
“This is a unique opportunity for the U.S.,” said a senior FIFA logistics officer. “It’s not just about clubs; it’s about ensuring we’re ready for the global spotlight in 2026.”
PSG Eyes Historic Treble
Paris Saint-Germain comes into the Club World Cup riding a wave of confidence. After winning Ligue 1, securing the Coupe de France, and conquering Europe, they now aim to complete a historic treble by adding the Club World Cup title to their cabinet.
“We respect all the teams, but our goal is clear,” said captain Marquinhos. “We want to be world champions.”
As the matches kick off this weekend, fans across the globe will be watching closely. The world’s best clubs, players, and managers are now converging in the United States—not just for glory, but for history.
