Javier Zanetti has backed Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain as the top contenders to lift the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup trophy currently underway in the United States.
The Argentine legend, speaking to Spanish outlet AS, expressed optimism about the performances of both sides, naming them as the standout teams of the tournament so far. “A final between Inter and Madrid would be nice, yes,” Zanetti joked, before quickly adding, “But today I see PSG and Real Madrid, they are doing very well.”
Madrid, already five-time champions of the competition, have been drawn into Group H, where they will face Saudi giants Al-Hilal, Mexican side Pachuca, and Austria’s RB Salzburg. The Spanish champions began their campaign with a dominant display, eyeing a record-extending sixth title.
Paris Saint-Germain, meanwhile, are still hunting their first Club World Cup crown. Grouped in Group B alongside Brazilian outfit Botafogo, MLS club Seattle Sounders, and La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid, the French giants opened with a sensational 4-0 win over Atletico on Sunday under scorching Pasadena heat.
The expanded format of the 2025 edition has raised global excitement, with 32 clubs from around the world competing over four weeks. The tournament is being seen as a high-stakes battleground, especially for European and South American powerhouses aiming to assert continental dominance.
Zanetti’s nod to PSG underscores the club’s ambitions under Luis Enrique, who has been vocal about the harsh conditions and condensed scheduling. Despite never winning the trophy, PSG’s attacking firepower and squad depth make them formidable contenders.
The Club World Cup runs until July 13, with knockout rounds set to begin early next month. All eyes are now on whether the heavyweights like Madrid and PSG can live up to the expectations—and if Inter, Zanetti’s beloved club, can mount a surprise challenge of their own.
