The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup may have delivered global exposure and huge financial windfalls, but for several clubs, the aftermath is beginning to take a toll. While Chelsea’s post-tournament scheduling crunch has already made headlines, they are not the only side dealing with the consequences. Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal may soon pay a steep price for their participation in the expanded summer tournament in the U.S.
The first edition of the 32-team Club World Cup brought together elite squads from around the globe for a month-long showdown in the sweltering heat of the American summer. Al-Hilal, one of Asia’s biggest clubs, took part with high hopes, but the toll of the competition is beginning to show.
The Riyadh-based club has reportedly submitted an official apology and is considering withdrawing from the 2025 Saudi Super Cup, scheduled for August 19 in Hong Kong. According to club officials, the team has been severely impacted by “technical and physical reasons” following their participation in the Club World Cup.
“The team is suffering from continuous fatigue after a long and arduous season, both at the club level and with the national teams,” said Saudi sports critic Mohammed Al-Sheikh. “No other Saudi club has faced the same physical pressure.”
Al-Hilal was slated to face Al-Qadisiyah the day after Al-Nassr plays Al-Ittihad, but player exhaustion and a lack of recovery time have thrown those plans into jeopardy.
What’s at stake?
The Saudi Super Cup is a high-profile event, and Al-Hilal’s withdrawal could carry serious consequences. Under tournament regulations, failure to participate may result in a fine of up to approximately $133,000 and a potential suspension from the next edition. The Saudi Football Federation is reportedly reviewing the situation and has not issued an official objection thus far, acknowledging that the Blue Waves had less rest than any other team involved.
With Al-Hilal potentially out, Al-Ahli is now considered the frontrunner to replace them, according to Al-Riyadiyah newspaper, although the final list of participating teams is still being finalized.
Al-Hilal’s absence would be notable not just for their stature but also because they are defending champions, having defeated Al-Ittihad 4-1 in Abu Dhabi last year, with Brazilian forward Malcom netting twice in a statement performance.
The Chelsea parallel: Shared struggle
The situation mirrors what Premier League side Chelsea is now facing after lifting the Club World Cup trophy in New Jersey. According to the Daily Mail, the Premier League has denied the Blues’ request to delay their opening fixture, which leaves manager Enzo Maresca with little time to prepare for the new season.
“Though the Club World Cup has brought significant financial reward, the physical toll on the players has raised concerns within the club,” the report states.
Chelsea’s players are expected to return to training around August 5, giving them just 12 days to prepare for their opener against Crystal Palace. With key players still recovering, Maresca may have to rely on fringe squad members like Ben Chilwell and Joao Felix, especially if their transfer situations remain unresolved.
