The FIFA Club World Cup is set to be the biggest edition yet, and while Liverpool won’t be participating, there will be plenty for Reds fans to watch closely.
Taking place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, this year’s tournament features 32 teams from across the globe, marking the first time the competition has adopted a World Cup-style format. Liverpool players, including Mohamed Salah, have been making the most of their time off after missing out of the event.
Expanded to include a broader representation of continental champions and high-performing clubs, the Club World Cup now mirrors the structure of the international competition, with a group stage followed by knockout rounds. Among the teams competing are Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Flamengo, as well as rising forces from Saudi Arabia, the MLS, and Asia.
For Reds supporters, the absence of their club doesn’t mean a lack of interest. Several former Liverpool players are set to compete in this year’s tournament.
Here’s a look at some of the ex-Reds set to grace the Club World Cup stage this summer...
Luis Suarez (Inter Miami)
The Uruguayan icon lit up Anfield between 2011 and 2014 and is now spearheading Inter Miami’s attack. Suarez remains a lethal finisher and, alongside Lionel Messi, could be instrumental in helping the MLS side go deep in the tournament.
Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami – Coach)
A former midfield enforcer for Liverpool from 2007 to 2010, Mascherano is now the head coach at Inter Miami. His leadership and tactical understanding could be pivotal for the Florida club.
Luis Suarez #9 of Inter Miami reacts during the first half of the game against the Charlotte FC at Chase Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Luis Suarez is set to light up the stage at this year's Club World Cup (Image: Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Real Madrid)
Trent made a shock move from Anfield to the Santiago Bernabeu, with the Reds accepting a $13 million deal to release the right-back early, allowing him to take part in the competition.. Now part of one of the tournament favorites, the England international could be chasing more silverware in white instead of red.
Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid – Head Coach)
The midfield maestro turned elite coach, Alonso’s managerial rise has been meteoric. After leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title, he now takes charge of Real Madrid and is seen as a top contender for the trophy.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Xabi Alonso
It will be the first tournament as part of Real Madrid for Trent Alexander-Arnold and Xabi Alonso (Image: Getty Images)
Allan Rodrigues (Flamengo)
A talented Brazilian midfielder who never quite made the breakthrough at Liverpool after signing for the Reds in 2015, failing to make an appearance for the club.
Allan has carved out a steady career back in Brazil. He’ll be a part of Flamengo’s strong midfield unit.
Ryan Kent (Seattle Sounders)
The winger came through Liverpool’s academy and showed promise before moving to Rangers and now MLS.
At Seattle Sounders, Kent brings pace and flair to their attacking options.