French manager Arsene Wenger has pointed out what makes Lionel Messi stand out from the rest of the stars at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Inter Miami’s venture into the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) has already proven to be financially rewarding. Despite entering the tournament as a host team and finishing second in their group, the Major League Soccer (MLS) side has raked in significant earnings so far. Inter Miami's Club World Cup group performance The MLS club were not expected to progress from Group A, placed alongside Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, Portuguese side FC Porto, and Brazil’s Palmeiras. The group stage campaign began with a goalless draw against Al Ahly, followed by a thrilling 2-1 win over Porto. In that game, Messi delivered a classic moment with a stunning free-kick goal in the 54th minute to seal the victory. Miami’s final group match was a 2-2 draw against Palmeiras on Monday, where they demonstrated resilience to secure the crucial point needed for advancement. With five points from three matches, the MLS side finished second in Group A and advanced to the Round of 16. Iner Miami to face PSG This Sunday, Inter Miami will face Paris Saint-Germain at Mercedes–Benz Stadium in Atlanta in one of the toughest possible matchups. Whether or not they advance, the MLS side has already proven it can compete with global powerhouses. Wenger praises Messi Ahead of that high-stakes clash, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger praised Messi’s influence on the team’s performance and his role as a key figure in the Club World Cup. Wenger, widely credited with shaping one of the Premier League’s greatest teams, explained why Messi, even in the twilight of his career, continues to stand out among the world’s elite — including names like Vinícius Jr., Ousmane Dembele, Erling Haaland, and Michael Olise. “There’s a discussion that defines the difference between the best player in the tournament and the most influential,” Wenger said in an interview with journalist Jose Armando. “Lionel Messi doesn’t have the best stats in this tournament, but without a doubt, he is the most influential. Without him, Inter Miami would never have qualified”. “So there’s a big difference. Michael Olise has the best numbers in the tournament and has played excellent matches, but Bayern Munich would still qualify without him. Inter Miami would not without Messi,” he added. Inter Miami's Lionel Messi warned by PSG fans YEN.com.gh earlier reported on the strong reaction of a section of Paris Saint-Germain fans after the PSG-Inter Miami Round of 16 clash was confirmed at the ongoing Club World Cup. The former Barcelona playmaker, who once played for the French side, is being targeted by these Parisians ahead of the Atalanta showdown on June 29. Source: YEN.com.gh