In Saudi Arabia’s core, there’s a palpable sense of excitement brewing. Manchester City, a powerhouse of soccer, led by the esteemed Pep Guardiola, is gearing up to participate in the much-coveted Club World Cup. The Gulf Kingdom is playing host to this celebrated tournament for the first time in history. This grand spectacle will unfold in Jeddah, a lively coastal city chosen to accommodate all seven matches of the tournament. City is on a mission to acquire the sole title that has slipped out of their grasp, thereby completing their trophy suite.
Guardiola refers to this pursuit as “completing the circle”. He is well-acquainted with this tournament, having clinched victory three times previously with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Now, his goal is to attain the first Club World Cup victory for Manchester City. This dream is far from unrealistic; City remains a strong contender despite their recent setbacks in the Premier League. If we delve into the annals of soccer history, since 2012, the Champions of the League have invariably claimed the Club World Cup, except when Corinthians prevailed over Chelsea.
Yet, history may see a fresh twist this time. Regardless of the winning team, a new moniker will be engraved on the much-coveted trophy on December 23rd. South America’s Fluminense, buoyed by their recent Copa Libertadores triumph, is also contending for the crown. However, City’s fiercest challenge may arise from an unanticipated quarter: the burgeoning soccer giant, Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Football
Al-Ittihad, the champions representing the host nation, have qualified solely on their status. However, they have a line-up of seasoned players who have previously clinched Club World Cup victories. Players like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Fabinho, who are well-known in households, recently left top European clubs to join the Saudi Pro League. Benzema notably stands out in history as the first player to score in four Club World Cups, guiding Al-Ittihad to a 3-0 victory over Auckland City in the initial round.
The appeal of the Saudi Pro League constitutes just one fragment of the grand vision concocted by the Gulf Kingdom. Saudi Arabia’s recent surge in sports investment constitutes a strategic move to morph into a major force in international football. The Kingdom has its sights set on hosting the World Cup in 2034, and is keen on hosting future editions of the Club World Cup, which is due for a makeover in 2025.
Saudi’s Broader Plan and the Associated Controversies
Saudi Arabia’s brightening portfolio already boasts hosting a Formula One Grand Prix, significant boxing matches, and events in tennis and golf. The Kingdom even has stakes in the Premier League, owning Newcastle United, and the LIV Golf. All these ventures align with a comprehensive strategy to enhance Saudi’s global image, diversify its economy, and stimulate tourism.
However, these ambitious advancements have not been without rebuke. Critics contend that the Kingdom’s de facto ruler, 38-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is leveraging sports to divert attention from the nation’s controversial human rights record. This allegation has drawn the attention of rights groups worldwide.
The Anticipation for Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia
Despite these controversies, there’s no refuting that the Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia has whipped up a global fervour. The soccer world is on edge as the teams prepare, and Manchester City, under Guardiola’s seasoned leadership, is fixated on the one trophy that has evaded them so far. Will City capitalize on this opportunity and complete their trophy suite? Or will the underdogs have their day? The suspense is electric, and all paths lead to Jeddah. As the world’s attention is riveted, Saudi Arabia is primed to deliver a spectacle.
