Raphinha criticizes new format of 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in United States

Raphinha, Barcelona’s Brazilian winger, shares his perspective on the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup controversy — a tournament that will be held with a new format for one month in the United States.

This new FIFA format draws attention as its schedule coincides with European leagues’ break period — forcing players to sacrifice their rest time after an exhausting season.

Barcelona itself failed to qualify for this tournament despite dominating domestic competitions and reaching Champions League semifinals — unable to meet UEFA’s four-year coefficient requirements.

Raphinha expresses his concern for players who must compete in the hot United States weather — an additional challenge for participants who have just completed a long season since late last year.