This year’s FIFA Club World Cup is set to offer more than just the usual showcase of elite European talent. While global attention often centers on the likes of Manchester City or Real Madrid, several veterans of the game—once household names in Europe—are poised to make unexpected appearances representing clubs in less-publicised leagues.
Here are five players you might be surprised to see on the Club World Cup stage:
1. Edinson Cavani – Boca Juniors (Argentina 🇦🇷)
The former PSG and Napoli star may no longer be in Europe’s spotlight, but Edinson Cavani remains a force in South America. Now playing for Boca Juniors, Cavani brings his trademark grit and goal-scoring instincts to the Argentine giants, who will represent CONMEBOL in the tournament. His presence offers both experience and star power to Boca’s campaign.
More names and details would typically follow this opening, such as other former European stars now playing in Saudi Arabia, MLS, or Asian leagues. Let me know if you’d like a full list of five players with similar profiles to Cavani.