FIFA have been blasted from all angles over the summer showdown, with kicks off in mid-June. Criticism has included a lack of concern over player welfare, adding yet more fixtures to an already hectic schedule, unfair amounts of prize money for those going deep in the competition compared to UEFA Champions League successes and more.

Real Madrid's FIFA Club World Cup participation sees it spend a transfer fee to sign Alexander-Arnold early, but also means it has the funds to do so.

The winner of the playoff match between MLS's LAFC and Liga MX's Club America will qualify to the FIFA Club World Cup and bag close to $10 million.