The FIFA Club World Cup has faced criticism over its new format, switching from an annual event to a four-year competition. Key concerns include FIFA's relationship with Saudi Arabia and the strain on players’ schedules. Former Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge supports the revamp, likening it to previous Champions League changes. He believes the new format will create more excitement as the tournament progresses and that it helps establish a clear 'true' Club World Champion. The ongoing adaptation of tournaments indicates a broader cultural attitude towards change in football.
The change in the format of the Club World Cup was absolutely necessary. In 1976, we won against Belo Horizonte; there were almost 120,000 spectators in the stadium for the away leg.
Gianni Infantino deserves a lot of credit for pushing this through and creating the new Club World Cup. This tournament will really gain momentum from the knockout phase onwards.
In Germany, we generally tend to approach things with a negative spirit these days. The reform of the Champions League was also initially criticized.
If I were a player, I would be happy to be there. Because whoever wins now will be the 'true' Club World Champion.
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