Guardiola contract boost, De Bruyne extension, Messi reunion - Man City Club World Cup latest

In normal circumstances, a chance for Manchester City to defend their title as world champions in a major showpiece tournament would be one they would relish.

However, the expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup from seven teams to 32 has been beset by delays, controversies and criticism. Pep Guardiola has insisted City will travel to the USA with a full squad and with the intention to defend their crown - but he has been equally critical of the new format that will extend City's season into 12 months.

Guardiola is out of contract midway through the tournament, while Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne are in the same position. FIFA recently introduced rules to account for such situations, handing City a potential triple contract boost - although Guardiola reacted angrily when he learned of rules that will force clubs to take their 'strongest teams' to the Club World Cup.

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The new-look tournament will take place between June 15 and July 13, kicking off just 16 days after the Champions League final, with an international window in between.

It will be held in the USA, with FIFA announcing 12 venues this week. They are:

The final will be held at the MetLife Stadium, with specific locations for group games and the knockout stages still to be confirmed.

30 of the 32 participating clubs have been confirmed, with a host representative from the MLS to be decided as well as the winners of the 2024 Copa Libertadores. If River Plate, who have already qualified, win that tournament, then Club Olympia of Paraguay will qualify.

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