Man City to face Juventus at revamped Club World Cup

Manchester City will launch their Club World Cup title defence against Moroccan side Wydad, while also facing Juventus in the group stage of the revamped tournament.

Pep Guardiola’s side are the reigning champions having lifted the title in 2023, following their 4-0 victory over Brazilian club Fluminense in the final.

City are also joined by Al-Ain of the United Arab Emirates in Group G of the 32-team tournament in 2025, which will take place in the United States between June 15 and July 13.

Reigning Champions League holders Real Madrid have been drawn alongside Red Bull Salzburg, Pachuca and Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal in Group H, meaning Kylian Mbappe and Neymar could be in line for a reunion.

That duo’s former club, Paris Saint-Germain, are joined by Atletico Madrid in Group B.

Chelsea will play Flamengo, Club Leon and Esperance Sportive de Tunisie in Group D, as Bayern Munich and Benfica are paired together in Group C.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami were somewhat contentiously included. They won MLS’ Supporters’ Shield, yet were dumped out of the playoffs by Atlanta United.

Miami will face Porto, Palmeiras and Al-Ahly in Group A.

The #FIFACWC group stage draw.#TakeItToTheWorld pic.twitter.com/4GOctX7MgI

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) December 5, 2024

Group A: Palmeiras, Porto, Al-Ahly, Inter Miami.

Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders.

Group C: Bayern Munich, Benfica, Boca Juniors, Auckland City.

Group D: Flamengo, Chelsea, Club Leon, Esperance Sportive de Tunis.

Group E: River Plate, Inter, Monterrey, Urawa Red Diamonds.

Group F: Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund, Ulsan HD, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Group G: Man City, Juventus, Wydad AC, Al-Ain.

Group H: Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, Al-Hilal, Pachuca.