This edition features elite teams that earned their place either by winning continental titles or through consistent performances over recent seasons. ..Continue Reading
Powerhouses like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Chelsea are all in the mix, though some big names are missing.
Despite winning the Premier League, Liverpool didn’t qualify, and neither did Europa League champions Tottenham.
Barcelona, fresh off a dominant domestic season under Hansi Flick, also failed to make the cut—despite winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and reaching the Champions League semi-finals.
Barcelona appealed to FIFA for a spot after Mexican side Leon were removed due to multi-club ownership rules, but their request was denied.
The tournament’s rule limiting entries to two clubs per country meant Barcelona lost out to Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, who ranked higher in UEFA’s coefficient standings.
Instead, Los Angeles FC were awarded the vacant slot after defeating Club America in a playoff, keeping the place within the North and Central American region.
The decision underscores how competitive and exclusive this new global format has become.
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