It is true that there are opponents, those who see competition as a hindrance, a swollen or unnecessary tournament. But as the history of football teaches us, time has the power to change perspectives.
Just remember England in 1930: the inventors of football, then not affiliated to, refused the invitation to the first disputed in the distant Uruguay. Perhaps they thought the tournament was not worth the effort, which was a passing, with no future. Today, the English probably mourn that decision.
In 2030, the Centenary World Cup, with games in Uruguay, Spain, Morocco and Portugal, will celebrate 100 years of stories, rivalries and achievements. The Club World Cup, as well as the World Cup of teams in its early days, still needs adjustments. It’s the first edition in this expanded format, and no one expects perfection right away. But, like every great tournament, time will bring maturity. Clubs that today do not surrender with body and soul, perhaps because they underestimate the competition, will be, in the fourth or fifth edition, fighting tooth and teeth for a vacancy.
On July 13, the champion – European or not – will raise the trophy at the same stadium that will crown the winning team of the next World Cup. This symbolism is one of the many incentives that make the Club World Cup special.
And, of course, there is the “dinch” involved, but what will really make the fans take the streets is the title, the glory of being the best in the world. Before the ball rolls, UEFA giants may not even consider the possibility of suffering against opponents from other continents.
But football has proven countless times that zebras and surprises are part of the game.
Write down: This arrogant posture of some tends to disappear. When the tournament gains even more prestige, when overcoming narratives and global rivalries consolidate, everyone will be giving life to this title.
The Club World Cup needs adjustments, yes, but its creation was a hit. She is the embryo of something grand, a stage for epic stories that will unite fans of all corners. As the legendary former player and coach Bill Shankly said, “Football is not a matter of life or death, it is much more important than that.” And the Club World Cup, over time, will prove that it is much more than a simple tournament. It is the future of global football.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the young Pan.
