Kounde and Raphinha Harshly Criticize 2025 Club World Cup Format

Barcelona players Jules Kounde and Raphinha have launched sharp criticism against the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup — a competition their club will not participate in.

Barcelona cannot take part in the tournament due to FIFA rules limiting the number of clubs per league to just two teams. Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid — with higher UEFA coefficient rankings — were selected to represent La Liga.

In the current UEFA coefficient rankings, Barcelona sits in 12th position, while Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid occupy second and tenth places respectively. This situation forces Barcelona to miss out on the prestigious tournament that will feature the world’s elite clubs.

The criticism from both Barcelona players is directed not only at FIFA as the organizer — but also at the clubs and players who will participate in the tournament.