Manchester City's participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 marks not just another tournament appearance, but potentially the dawn of a new era for the club. After a somewhat underwhelming 2024-25 season by their own high standards, City are looking to refresh their squad and re-establish their dominance on the global stage. Their activity in the transfer market, particularly the recent signings of Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, signals a clear intent to compete for the title and lay the foundation for sustained success.
The Club World Cup presents an opportunity for City to redeem themselves after relinquishing the Premier League title to Liverpool and exiting the Champions League earlier than anticipated. The tournament's expanded format and its location in the United States add further significance, making it a high-profile event with global attention. City's squad has already arrived in Miami and have begun preparations at Lynn University, focusing on acclimatizing to the conditions and fine-tuning their strategies ahead of their opening match against Wydad AC.
Tijjani Reijnders, the Dutch midfielder signed from AC Milan for a reported $55 million, is expected to bring energy and a goal-scoring threat to City's midfield. Following impressive performances in Serie A, Reijnders has been identified as a key player to fill the void left by Kevin De Bruyne's departure to Napoli. His versatility and dynamism in the center of the park could provide City with a new dimension in their attacking play.
Rayan Cherki, the young French midfielder arriving from Olympique Lyon in a $40 million deal, is another exciting addition to the squad. Cherki is considered one of Europe's top young talents, known for his flair, creativity, and ability to both score and create goals. At just 21 years old, he represents a long-term investment for City, with the potential to become a star under Pep Guardiola's guidance. Cherki's arrival is particularly timely, as City look to inject fresh impetus into their attacking lineup.
Beyond Reijnders and Cherki, City have also reinforced their defense with the signing of Algerian left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers for $37 million. Aït-Nouri's Premier League experience and solid defensive capabilities are expected to address a position that was a concern last season. He is likely to start in the Club World Cup, providing stability and attacking impetus down the left flank. Veteran English goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has also joined on a free transfer from Chelsea, adding valuable experience and depth to the goalkeeping department.
These new arrivals, along with January signings like Vitor Reis and Nico González, represent a significant overhaul of the City squad. The departure of key players like Kyle Walker and Jack Grealish further emphasizes the changing landscape at the club. With nine players in the squad having joined within the last six months, City's Club World Cup campaign will be a test of their ability to integrate new talent and build a cohesive team.
Despite the changes, City still possesses a core of world-class players, including Ballon d'Or winner Rodri and prolific striker Erling Haaland. Rodri's return from injury is a major boost for City, as his presence in midfield provides stability and control. Haaland's goal-scoring prowess remains a potent weapon, and City will be looking to him to lead the line and fire them to victory.
As Manchester City embark on this Club World Cup journey, they do so with a blend of renewed ambition and a recognition of the need to evolve. The new signings, particularly Reijnders and Cherki, hold the key to unlocking a new era of success for the club. The tournament will serve as a platform for these players to showcase their talent and integrate into Guardiola's system, while also providing City with an opportunity to reclaim their status as one of the world's best teams.
