The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 kicks off with a thrilling matchup between Inter Miami and Al Ahly. Unfortunately for Lionel Messi, he’ll have to begin the tournament without a key teammate: Jordi Alba.
Inter Miami has a tough challenge this summer. The MLS team was invited by FIFA for the Club World Cup 2025 due to the spot that the host nation had.
Now, Lionel Messi has a chance to win the first-ever 32-team FIFA Club World Cup. Unfortunately, he will not have one of his key teammates for at least the first match of the tournament.
Jordi Alba misses the first match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
The Spanish left-back was absent from the team’s starting XI, surprising many fans. He’s currently dealing with a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for several matches.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that the Spanish defender is not yet ready to return. However, he could make his comeback later in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, depending on how his recovery progresses.
Noah Allen was chosen by Mascherano to replace Jordi Alba. While Allen has performed well, he doesn’t offer the same attacking presence that Alba brings to the left flank.