Arsene Wenger dismisses Jurgen Klopp criticism and hails success of 'real Club World Cup' ahead of mouthwatering final between Chelsea and PSG

Klopp recently described the expanded Club World Cup as “the worst idea ever invented.” In response, Wenger firmly disagreed, backing the competition and highlighting the positive reception it has received. The Frenchman made his comments at a FIFA Technical Study Group briefing in New York ahead of the Club World Cup final.

Wenger believes the tournament has been a success, both in terms of fan turnout and club participation. The Club World Cup also serves as a testing ground for conditions expected at the 2026 World Cup in North America. FIFA has already identified ways to improve staging and player performance under extreme weather.

Speaking at a FIFA Technical Study Group briefing, Wenger said: “Everyone is entitled to an opinion, and I don't share Jurgen Klopp's view at all. I feel that a Club World Cup, a real Club World Cup, was needed. If you make an inquiry today with all the clubs that were here at this competition, I'm basically sure that we have 100% of answers of people who want to do this again. So that's basically the best answer.

“The decisive question is, do the fans like it? Attendance projections were low, but in reality, they were much higher. The answer is there.

“The heat in some games was a problem. We tried to combat that with cooling breaks and watering the pitches during breaks. We learned a lot on that front. Certainly, next year, there will be more roofed stadiums as we have to follow the TV schedule. We are learning to be better equipped to deal with these conditions.

“We had problems in Orlando, but the quality of natural grass pitches was generally good. The best surface was in Philadelphia — we want that as a benchmark.”

The Club World Cup final will take place between two European champions as the Champions League winners take on the Europa Conference League winners. Paris Saint-Germain take on Chelsea on July 13 at MetLife Stadium. FIFA will now review the feedback, including logistical and environmental factors, before the next iteration. Wenger’s comments suggest covered stadiums and improved infrastructure are on the horizon for the 2026 World Cup.