Although Chelsea claimed victory in the revamped Club World Cup, they haven’t secured a place in the 2029 edition — while runners-up PSG have already booked their spot.
Enzo Maresca’s men stunned the football world by dismantling Champions League holders PSG, with Cole Palmer delivering a standout performance. ..Continue Reading
The English club surged ahead with three first-half goals — two from Palmer and a classy lob from newcomer Joao Pedro.
PSG’s frustrations deepened in the second half as midfielder Joao Neves was shown a straight red card for pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair.
Despite some supporters downplaying the significance of the competition, Chelsea walked away with an eye-watering $125 million payday.
Strangely, though, the London side isn’t guaranteed a slot in the next tournament.
The 2029 Club World Cup will feature 32 teams, with entries distributed across continents to maintain regional balance.
Based on FIFA’s current structure, UEFA receives 12 places, CONMEBOL gets six, while AFC, CAF, and CONCACAF each earn four, and OFC is given one.
One spot also goes to the host country — which explains Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami participating this year.
Yet surprisingly, lifting the Club World Cup doesn’t grant automatic entry, meaning Chelsea must earn one of UEFA’s available spots to return.
Those places include the four Champions League winners prior to 2029, allowing PSG — as a recent finalist — to qualify despite their defeat.
The remaining slots will be determined by UEFA coefficient rankings, with Chelsea currently sitting in 14th place — right on the edge of qualification.
