On June 14, 2025, the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami hosted the opening match of the first-ever expanded Fifa Club World Cup, featuring Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, against Egypt’s Al Ahly. The 38-year-old Argentine star, widely regarded as the tournament’s biggest name, not only captained his team but also topped the salary rankings with an astonishing $135 million annually, roughly R$720 million. The game, which ended in a goalless draw, marked the start of a revamped 32-team tournament, drawing 60,927 fans despite challenges with ticket sales. Broadcast on platforms like CazéTV and Disney+, the event showcased global stars such as Mbappé, Haaland, and Vinicius Jr., while sparking debates about soaring player salaries. Messi’s presence, as an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, underscored the competition’s global appeal, though the match itself was a tactical stalemate.
The opener was more than a ceremonial kickoff. It introduced a new format with a group stage and increased participants, elevating the tournament’s prestige. Inter Miami, founded in 2018, showed moments of brilliance with Messi, Suárez, and Busquets, while Al Ahly, Africa’s most decorated club, displayed disciplined defending. The Forbes salary ranking, highlighting Messi’s dominance, fueled discussions about financial disparities in football.
Sky-high salaries in focus
The Forbes salary ranking for the Mundial de Clubes revealed staggering figures. Lionel Messi leads with $135 million per year, a sum that includes endorsements and bonuses alongside his base pay. Kylian Mbappé, of Real Madrid, follows with $90 million, while Erling Haaland of Manchester City earns $62 million, and Vinicius Jr., also of Real Madrid, takes home $55 million.
These figures highlight the commercial might of top players. Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023, after stints at Barcelona and PSG, has boosted the MLS’s global profile, driving ticket and merchandise sales. Mbappé, despite a trophyless season at Real Madrid, remains a marketing powerhouse. Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess keeps him among the elite, while Vinicius Jr.’s rise cements his value.
- Top Mundial de Clubes salaries:
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): $135 million
- Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): $90 million
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City): $62 million
- Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid): $55 million
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich): $39 million
Critics argue these salaries strain club finances, particularly in less wealthy leagues like the MLS, where Inter Miami relies on investors to fund its star-studded roster. The figures also spotlight the growing commercialization of the sport, with top earners doubling as global brands.
Ladies and gentlemen, @OscarUstari 😮💨🔥 pic.twitter.com/jfomOcGwB9
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) June 16, 2025
A balanced opener
The Inter Miami vs. Al Ahly match showcased the tournament’s competitive edge. Al Ahly controlled the first half with quick transitions and tight defending, though a missed penalty by Trézéguet kept the score level. Inter Miami’s goalkeeper, Diego Ustari, earned man-of-the-match honors with key saves.
In the second half, Messi took charge. A free kick that hit the net’s outer side fooled fans into thinking he’d scored, creating a “ghost goal” moment. Despite chances, Inter Miami couldn’t break Al Ahly’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy. The draw left both teams with one point in Group A, alongside Palmeiras and Porto.
Inter Miami’s relative inexperience was evident. As a seven-year-old club, it faces storied opponents like Al Ahly, with 12 African Champions League titles. Veterans like Suárez and Busquets, former Barcelona teammates of Messi, bring quality, but defensive lapses were a weak point.
Commercial hurdles for the tournament
Despite Messi’s draw, the Mundial struggled to fill seats. Organizers slashed ticket prices from $359 to $69 and offered student discounts, yet only 70% of the Hard Rock Stadium’s capacity was filled. The lukewarm demand raises questions about the tournament’s global appeal, especially with its mid-season timing clashing with European schedules.
Fifa, led by Gianni Infantino, is banking on stars like Messi to boost viewership and sponsorships. European clubs like PSG and Manchester City are favorites, but their players’ commitment is uncertain due to packed calendars. The tournament’s success hinges on balancing spectacle with competitive integrity.
Messi’s MLS revolution
Messi’s 2023 arrival at Inter Miami reshaped the MLS. Beyond his on-field contributions—15 goals and six assists in 20 games in 2025—he’s attracted stars like Suárez, Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The MLS saw a 30% spike in TV ratings, and Inter Miami set records for ticket and merchandise sales.
The team’s 2024 Supporters’ Shield win earned their Mundial spot, though some criticized their selection as the host representative, citing commercial bias due to Messi. At 38, Messi remains a game-changer, but his team’s global inexperience is a challenge against seasoned rivals.
Al Ahly’s African dominance
Al Ahly, Inter Miami’s opponent, is a titan of African football. With 45 domestic titles and 12 continental crowns, the Egyptian club qualified via their 2024 CAF Champions League triumph. Led by Spanish coach José Riveiro, hired weeks before, they showed tactical discipline and counter-attacking flair.
Key players included Emam Ashour, a dynamic midfielder, and Zizo, a high-profile signing from rivals Zamalek whose announcement video garnered 27 million views in a day. Goalkeeper and captain Mohamed El-Shenawy solidified their defense. Al Ahly’s four third-place finishes in prior Mundials signal their pedigree.
- Al Ahly’s key players:
- Emam Ashour: Midfielder with 28 goal involvements last season.
- Zizo: Ex-Zamalek star, named club’s best player for three years.
- Mohamed El-Shenawy: Veteran goalkeeper and defensive leader.
A bold new format
The 2025 Mundial de Clubes features 32 teams in eight groups of four, followed by knockout rounds. Running from June 14 to July 13, it’s the largest edition yet. Clubs like Palmeiras, Flamengo, Real Madrid, and PSG compete for a $100 million prize.
Fifa aims to rival the World Cup’s prestige, with an NBA-style opening ceremony featuring music and theatrics. However, European clubs’ scheduling concerns and a FIFPRO lawsuit over player workload pose challenges. The format’s success depends on fan engagement and competitive balance.
Other stars to watch
Beyond Messi, the Mundial boasts elite talent. Kylian Mbappé, despite an uneven Real Madrid season, is a focal point. Erling Haaland seeks his first club world title, while Vinicius Jr. aims to solidify his global status. Chelsea’s Cole Palmer and PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé add flair, and River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono represents the next generation.
Each player carries unique stakes. Haaland’s scoring prowess makes him a favorite, while Vinicius Jr.’s flair draws eyes. The mix of veterans and rising stars ensures a dynamic tournament.
Inter Miami’s preparation
Coached by Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami entered the Mundial after a strong MLS season but skipped recent friendlies to focus on recovery and youth integration. Venezuelan prospect Alejandro Bran, 22, likened to Busquets, is a bright spot. Defensive frailties, exposed by Al Ahly, remain a concern.
Mascherano, a former Barcelona teammate of Messi, emphasizes creating a supportive environment for the star. While the veteran core is a strength, the team’s lack of global experience could falter against Group A rivals like Palmeiras and Porto.
Group A outlook
Group A, with Inter Miami, Al Ahly, Palmeiras, and Porto, is highly competitive. Palmeiras faces Porto next, while Inter Miami meets Porto in their second match. Al Ahly takes on Palmeiras on June 23.
The group blends South American flair, European structure, African speed, and American pragmatism, making outcomes unpredictable. Messi’s brilliance is Inter Miami’s edge, but their collective resilience will be tested.
