Huge Man City Club World Cup announcement made as TV details revealed

Streaming giant DAZN has secured a deal with FIFA to broadcast the contentious Club World Cup worldwide on a free-to-air basis.

Ahead of next summer's tournament in the US, club insiders have voiced their discontent over FIFA's delay in selling the broadcasting rights—a situation that's led to legal challenges from player associations and domestic leagues concerned about the event's timing. It has been speculated that the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) may invest up to one billion USD (£787.6 million) in DAZN, which recently acquired rights to show the Saudi Pro League in several European countries including the UK, as well as showcasing Riyadh Season boxing matches and Six Kings Slam tennis events from Saudi Arabia.

FIFA’s announcement about having a global broadcast partner - allowing sub-licensing to domestic broadcasters - comes just before the draw in Miami. English clubs Manchester City and Chelsea will avoid each other during the group stage of this 32-team competition, which has faced significant challenges even before its inception.

READ MORE: Kyle Walker has already made Sheffield United feelings clear amid Man City transfer 'interest'

READ MORE: Man City pioneers who played when football was banned are celebrated

Criticism has been levelled at FIFA for not engaging properly with player unions and leagues regarding the international match calendar, with Premier League CEO Richard Masters referring to the advent of the Club World Cup as a "tipping point". Union concerns are primarily focused on player welfare, with European-based players who progress far in the tournament likely to have minimal time for rest and recovery before the 2025-26 domestic seasons commence.

Players have voiced their unease,