Chelsea clinched the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S., stunning Paris Saint-Germain 3–0 in the final at MetLife Stadium. Goals from Cole Palmer (2) and João Pedro secured the win under manager Enzo Maresca, who praised his squad’s sharp tactics (The Guardian). The crowd of over 80,000 witnessed a dominant display, including a red card for PSG’s João Neves and a tense post-match confrontation involving PSG’s coach (The Times). Former U.S. President Donald Trump presented the trophy, adding to the heightened atmosphere (The Guardian).
PSG Pummel Real, Fans Express Outrage
In the semi-finals, PSG dismantled Real Madrid 4–0, a result that provoked outrage among Madrid supporters. PSG scored thrice in the first 30 minutes—two from Fibián Ruiz and one from Ousmane Dembélé—before Gonçalo Ramos added a late strike (France 24). Fan reaction was swift and harsh, with many blaming Real’s defense, singling out Antonio Rüdiger and Marco Asensio for their lapses (Yen.com.gh – Ghana news.).
Luka Modrić: A New Chapter at AC Milan
Almost immediately after the Club World Cup, Luka Modrić confirmed his departure from Real Madrid after 13 trophy-laden years to join AC Milan on a one-year contract, with an option for a second (SABCsport). Arriving in August, Modrić—who turns 39 this year—linked up with coach Massimiliano Allegri in his return to the San Siro (as.com). Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare emphasized Modrić’s leadership credentials and childhood affinity for the club (Football Today). Allegri echoed that sentiment, calling him “extraordinary” and pivotal to Milan’s midfield rebuilding (reuters.com).
Takeaways
- Chelsea’s rise: Moved from surprise finalists to World Cup champions with a statement victory over PSG.
- Madrid backlash: Their semi-final rout by PSG triggered fan backlash, spotlighting inconsistent defense from veterans like Rüdiger and Asensio.
- Modrić’s legacy: The midfield maestro ends a storied Real career, bringing vast experience and leadership to a resurgent Milan under Allegri.
These developments signal shifting power dynamics—Chelsea’s emerging global prestige, Real Madrid’s moment of fragility, and Modrić’s passing of the torch to AC Milan. Fans worldwide are bracing for a riveting Serie A season and more drama on the world football stage.
