The FIFA Club World Cup is where the champions of each continent come together to battle for global stardom to establish which club truly sits on top of World Soccer.
As its 21st edition occurs, the FIFA Club World Cup will bring its unique match-ups and iconic moments to the United States of America.
Here, Sports Preview’s Ethan Pitts tips three players to watch as they aim to lead their respective franchise to Club World Cup glory through goal creation.
Michael Olise – 10/1
Michael Olise is a vastly technically gifted footballer, whose move from Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024 added much needed dynamism and creativity to Vincent Kompany’s team.
A French international and Bundesliga winner, Olise is now looking to showcase his talents in one of football’s greatest competitions.
Olise’s first season in Germany was remarkable, as he notched up 21 assists in his 50 games in all competitions.
Munich’s number 17 has produced record-breaking numbers this season, and has established himself as the main creative protagonist spearheading Bayern’s attack.
Munich have a pretty favourable group in this year’s Club World Cup, which will give the France international ample opportunities to lead the assists tally.
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Ousmane Dembele – 20/1
Ousmane Dembele has transformed from a competent player into one of the world’s most potent attacking figures within the last 12 months – adding a new wave of end product to an already dynamic skillset.
The French-born international is currently the bookies’ favourite to win the prestigious Ballon D’or award, and if he can guide this young and vibrant PSG side to another European title you may as well roll the red carpet out for him now.
Dembele was once a vigorous winger capable of playing on both flanks.
Now, under Luis Enrique, he has become sort of a false-nine. This transition has given him the freedom to roam about and pick up spaces within all sectors of the PSG attack.
PSG’s number 10 comes into this competition with high form – accumulating six assists in his last five UEFA Champions League appearances.
Lionel Messi – 50/1
When it comes to footballing eminence, few names shine brighter than Lionel Messi.
Three decades of experience, eight Ballon D’ors and countless trophies later – the magic man still has it.
Messi comes into this competition in a rich vein of form, accumulating three assists in his last two Major League Soccer appearances.
Inter Miami would definitely be considered as an ‘outsider’ in this tournament.
However, with a ‘weaker’ group and home status, it gives Messi one final chance to showcase his skills in a club football International tournament.
There is no man better to capitalise on Messi’s playmaking genius than his partner in crime, Luis Suarez. Expect some fireworks from these two legends throughout this tournament.
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