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FIFA is considering changing the entry rules for the new Club World Cup, with the aim of increasing the number of teams from the same country that can take part in the tournament. According to reports in The Times, the proposal would see up to three clubs from each national federation eligible to participate, instead of the current limit of two teams.
The inaugural edition of the 32-team tournament was marred by controversy, with several major European league champions missing out. La Liga champions Barcelona and Serie A champions Napoli failed to secure participation, prompting criticism of the legitimacy of the competition, which is promoted as a tournament that brings together the world's best clubs.
From England, the Premier League was represented only by Chelsea and Manchester City, both recent Champions League winners. Meanwhile, Liverpool, despite being crowned Premier League champions, were unable to participate due to the two-team per country restriction.
The proposal to allow three teams from the same country aims to avoid the recurrence of similar situations in the future.
In addition to changing the limit for teams from the same country, the possibility of expanding the tournament from 32 to 48 teams is also on the table. This idea reportedly enjoys the support of the European Club Association (ECA), but faces strong opposition from UEFA.
European football's governing body is also against the proposal to hold the tournament every two years, supporting maintaining the current four-year cycle.
Although no immediate decisions are expected, the issue is expected to dominate the upcoming FIFA Council meeting. FIFA Vice President Viktor Montaliani has defended the outcome of the first edition, calling it positive.
At this stage, it remains unclear which of the proposals will receive the necessary support to be approved, while the debate among the main football institutions is expected to continue.
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