After the format change of the FIFA Club World Cup, many historic names were given the chance to participate in the tournament. As a result, teams like Inter Milan, Juventus, FC Bayern and Real Madrid secured their place in the event. Despite the competition opening to 32 teams, AC Milan failed to qualify and will be absent.
Still, the clubâs reality has improved significantly in recent years. At one point, AC Milan faced the risk of relegation to Serie B. Today, they compete for European spots in Serie A and challenge top teams consistently. Although they have not reestablished full dominance in Italy, they have built a strong project. By signing young and promising talents like Santiago Gimenez, Christian Pulisic, and Rafael Leao, the team has raised its competitive level.
Even so, many fans remain disappointed with the clubâs overall progress since they expected more after recent investments and improvement. The sale of key players like Tijjani Reijnders triggered concern. Meanwhile, rumors about Theo Hernandez possibly leaving have fueled frustration. On top of that, missing the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 added to the criticism surrounding the project.
Why did AC Milan miss out on the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
After FIFA revamped the format for the Club World Cup 2025, it also changed the qualification system to boost global diversity. As part of the new structure, UEFA received 12 spots to distribute among its clubs. However, AC Milan finished 17th in the confederationâs four-year ranking and failed to secure a direct berth. In contrast, Juventus ranked 14th, while Inter Milan claimed the 7th position. Their higher rankings gave them the opportunity to play in the competition.
Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan celebrates scoring his teamâs first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between AC Milan and Feyenoord in 2025.
AC Milanâs recent performances have improved, yet their UEFA Champions League success remains elusive. They have not reached the final since the 2006-07 season. Moreover, they ended up in eighth place in the Italian league. This disappointing finish kept them out of European competitions for the 2025-26 season.
see also
Why are Liverpool not playing at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
Although absent from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, AC Milan still have a shot at the 2029 edition. To qualify, they must win the Champions League in the 2026-27 or 2027-28 season, when the four-year cycle ranking ends. If they fall short, they need better European performances than Inter Milan or Juventus. This strategic improvement could secure their place in the competition.
