Lionel Messi could now surpass Cristiano Ronaldo in Club World Cup feat after Inter Miami qualify for tournament
Lionel Messi could surpass Cristiano Ronaldo's feat in the FIFA Club World Cup following Inter Miami's qualification for the tournament in 2025, as outlined by BOLAVIP. The MLS side secured entry into next year's FIFA Club World Cup after winning the Supporters' Shield this season.
The FIFA Club World Cup has been revamped and the new format will kickstart next July, featuring 32 teams from across the world. Unfortunately, Al-Nassr haven't qualified for the tournament, meaning Cristiano Ronaldo won't be able to add to his tally next year.
That would open up the door for his archnemesis to take advantage. Lionel Messi has five appearances at the FIFA Club World Cup, all during his time at Barcelona. The Argentine ace has won the tournament three times, in 2009, 2011, and 2015, registering five goals and one assist.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese legend has eight appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup for Real Madrid and Manchester United combined. The 39-year-old is the tournament's record goalscorer with seven goals. Cristiano Ronaldo has won the tournament once with the Red Devils and thrice with Los Blancos.
When Inter Miami take to the field at the 2025 FIFA World Cup, they will have the chance to become the first club from America to win the tournament. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi will also have the opportunity to surpass Ronaldo and, once again, reign supreme in the GOAT debate.
How much do Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi earn?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo may be in the final phase of their careers, but they are still the two best-paid footballers in the world. As per a report by Forbes, the Portuguese icon is the biggest earner in football, pocketing a massive $285 million per year from wages and sponsorship deals.
Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr is worth $220 million per year, but it expires at the end of this season and he hasn't signed a new deal yet. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has scored nine goals and set up three more from 10 games across competitions. He has shown no signs of slowing down and is expected to sign an extension soon.
Meanwhile, Messi is second on that list, earning $135 million from his wages and advertising commitments. The diminutive magician has also been indispensable for Inter Miami this season, helping them win the Supporters' Shield. Messi has registered 22 goals and 12 assists from 22 games across competitions for the Herons this campaign.