The FIFA Club World Cup is already generating headlines in the United States, not just for its global matchups or record-breaking crowds, but due to a bizarre and unexpected controversy involving pitch conditions—and, surprisingly, Lionel Messi’s influence.
Amid the usual pre-match tension and tactical chatter, Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl made a statement that left many stunned, and it surprisingly included Lionel Messi. A jab? A joke? Or a deeper commentary on how conditions are being influenced by some of the tournament’s biggest names? The remark has now sparked debate on whether the revamped Club World Cup is offering equal playing conditions for all 32 clubs involved.
Tournament under scrutiny
This 2025 edition marks the beginning of a new era for the FIFA Club World Cup, with 32 teams participating in a World Cup-style tournament across the U.S. It’s an ambitious and highly marketed expansion—but so far, not without criticism.
The MetLife Stadium, which hosted a drab 0-0 encounter between Porto and Palmeiras on Monday, has become symbolic of the growing discontent. Following that match, both head coaches openly criticized the condition of the turf, suggesting it did not meet the standards expected at this level.
Adding to that, Monterrey vice-president Pedro Esquivel aired his frustrations about inadequate training facilities: “We have not been provided with the necessary conditions to prepare properly,” he said. And then came Kehl’s now-viral remark, which he gave while speaking to Marca ahead of Dortmund’s opener against Fluminense.
“The special thing here is that I think Lionel Messi chooses the height of the grass,” Kehl joked. “I think we’re fine where we train; it’s very short, but the lads are having a great time. It’s getting water, the balls are different, but nothing’s holding us back in any way.”
While clearly playful, The German boss’ words tap into growing concerns that some teams may be enjoying preferential treatment—whether through higher-quality pitches, more accommodating training grounds, or more flexible match conditions. And Messi, now the face of Inter Miami, has naturally become the focal point.
