Chelsea Claims New FIFA Club World Cup Title Amidst Transfer Frenzy
The first edition of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup concluded on July 13, with Chelsea surprisingly securing a 3-0 victory against PSG.
- Chelsea won the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup, defeating PSG 3-0 on July 13.
- The tournament’s new format influenced an unusually busy summer transfer window.
- Several high-profile transfers occurred between June and July, coinciding with the competition.
- Notable moves include Thiago Almada to Atletico de Madrid and Jamie Gittens to Chelsea.
- Theo Hernandez also made a significant transfer to Al-Hilal.
Chelsea surprisingly won the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup on July 13. The unexpected triumph came just weeks after their UEFA Conference League victory. This new tournament format significantly impacted the summer transfer window. Two additional windows opened in June, one before the competition and another before the typical June 30 contract expirations. These allowed clubs to register players for the later stages of the Club World Cup. The regular summer transfer window then officially opened on July 1, ushering in a period of significant player movement ahead of the 2025-26 preseason. Here are five transfers that occurred during this busy period you might have missed.
Thiago Almada Joins Atletico de Madrid
The former Atlanta United attacking midfielder has officially joined Diego Simeone’s squad. Atletico de Madrid, a surprising disappointment in the tournament after a group stage exit, secured Almada’s signature. He moved to Botafogo in the summer of 2024, followed by a loan spell at Olympique Lyon in January. This move represents a significant opportunity for the former MLS star to make his mark in Europe. Playing under Simeone’s guidance could be pivotal for his development. Atletico de Madrid reportedly paid around $20 million for Almada.
Ange-Yoan Bonny Arrives at Inter
Inter Milan is undergoing considerable changes this summer following the Club World Cup. Cristian Chivu has been appointed as the new manager, replacing Simone Inzaghi. The attacking department is also set for a refresh with the departures of Marko Arnautovic and Joaquin Correa. Inter will retain young talent Francesco Pio Esposito, who scored a crucial goal against River Plate in the tournament. The club has also signed Ange-Yoan Bonny from Parma for approximately $25 million. Discussions are reportedly underway to sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta before the new season commences.
Jamie Gittens Signs for Chelsea
Chelsea has been exceptionally active in the transfer market this summer. The English club has acquired Borussia Dortmund forward Jamie Gittens for £51.5 million. Gittens has signed a seven-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2032. This deal makes him Chelsea’s seventh signing and their most expensive acquisition of the summer so far. The team, managed by Enzo Maresca, also secured the services of Joao Pedro from Brighton. The Brazilian striker impressed in the latter stages of the Club World Cup, netting three goals in three matches.
Alvaro Carreras Returns to Real Madrid
Real Madrid is also implementing numerous changes this summer. Xabi Alonso has taken over as head coach, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, who became the new manager of the Brazilian national team. The club has already signed Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. Argentinian talent Franco Mastantuono was also brought in from River Plate. Real Madrid has now signed Spanish left-back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica for around $50 million. Carreras returns to the club where he developed his game in the academies from 2017 to 2020.
Theo Hernandez Moves to Al-Hilal
AC Milan has decided to part ways with former Real Madrid defender Theo Hernandez this summer. After some deliberation, the French international has chosen to join Al-Hilal. He will play under the management of former Inter manager Simone Inzaghi. While AC Milan embarks on a new era with manager Massimiliano Allegri, Hernandez will now compete in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Hilal reportedly paid approximately $25 million to secure his transfer this summer.
