The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has brought together the best clubs from every continent in a 32-team global showdown. Among its most high-profile and globally anticipated groups is Group G, featuring the reigning kings of Europe, Manchester City, and Italy’s comeback powerhouse, Juventus, alongside two of the top clubs from Africa and Asia: Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco) and Al Ain FC (UAE).
This group is stacked with history, ambition, and contrasting football styles. Here’s what you need to know about the teams in Group G, their strengths, stars, and what to expect in this explosive mix of tradition, power, and pride.
🇬🇧 Manchester City – The European Machine
After winning the UEFA Champions League in 2023, Manchester City cemented their place as the most dominant football force in Europe. Managed by Pep Guardiola, City comes into the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 not just as a favorite to top Group G — but to win the entire tournament.
Their style is methodical, precise, and overwhelming. Every player is drilled into a system that creates chances, dominates possession, and punishes mistakes.
💪 Strengths:
- World-class depth and positional flexibility
- Tactical mastery and control
- Experience in big tournaments and knockout formats
🔍 Player to Watch:
Phil Foden – With Kevin De Bruyne likely managing minutes, Foden has become the creative and attacking leader of this side. His ability to glide past defenders and score from anywhere will be vital.
🇮🇹 Juventus FC – Italy’s Reawakening Giant
After a turbulent few seasons off the pitch, Juventus is back with stability, youth, and renewed fire. Their return to international prominence is symbolized by a rebuilt core and a desire to restore their place among global elite.
Known for their defensive discipline and pragmatic style, Juventus is a tournament team — and this new format suits them.
🔐 Strengths:
- Rock-solid defense and structured midfield
- Elite experience in managing tight matches
- Set-piece specialists
🔍 Player to Watch:
Federico Chiesa – Fast, technical, and fearless in one-on-one situations, Chiesa will be key to unlocking stubborn defenses.
🇲🇦 Wydad AC – Morocco’s Pride, Africa’s Contender
Wydad Athletic Club, one of Africa’s most historic and successful teams, brings the fire of North African football to Group G. Winners of the CAF Champions League, Wydad is known for their intense crowds, aggressive pressing, and battle-tested mentality.
They may not have the household names of their European opponents, but Wydad is a team that thrives under pressure and relishes being the underdog.
🔥 Strengths:
- High pressing and physicality
- Tactical flexibility — can go direct or control tempo
- Experienced in continental finals and hostile environments
🔍 Player to Watch:
Yahia Attiyat Allah – A dynamic full-back with pace and delivery, he adds width and danger from deep positions.
🇦🇪 Al Ain FC – UAE’s Tactical Force
Representing Asia, Al Ain FC is one of the most consistent and decorated clubs in the AFC, with a strong domestic base and multiple international appearances under their belt. Runners-up at the 2018 Club World Cup, Al Ain is no stranger to shocking bigger clubs.
They play with discipline, quick transitions, and rely heavily on home-grown players supported by a few key foreign signings.
🧠 Strengths:
- Tactical organization and midfield discipline
- Proven Club World Cup experience
- Strong set-piece routines
🔍 Player to Watch:
Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba – The Togolese striker is a powerful forward capable of turning tight matches with a single touch. He’s clinical and dangerous in the box.
🌍 Tactical Storylines: A Group of Contrasts
What makes Group G fascinating is the contrast of football philosophies:
- Manchester City: Ultra-possession and spatial control
- Juventus: Conservative shape with fast counters
- Wydad AC: Aggression, passion, and momentum play
- Al Ain FC: Compact, smart, and well-prepared
Each match offers a new tactical narrative. Will City’s dominance prevail against tightly packed lines? Can Wydad shake things up with physicality and speed? Can Juventus outthink everyone?
📅 Key Matches to Watch
🗓️ Manchester City vs Juventus – Tactical masterclass between Guardiola and Allegri
🗓️ Wydad AC vs Al Ain FC – A must-win for both underdogs
🗓️ Juventus vs Wydad AC – European control vs North African chaos
📊 Predicted Group Outcomes
While Manchester City is the obvious favorite, the second qualifying spot is wide open. Juventus will be tested, while Wydad and Al Ain will be gunning for an upset to make history.
🔮 Predictions:
- Manchester City – Expected to top the group with dominant possession and goals
- Juventus FC – Smart enough to manage key moments and close out matches
- Wydad AC – High on energy, could upset if overlooked
- Al Ain FC – Organized and confident, but group may be too steep
But, as past tournaments have shown, Club World Cup groups rarely go as expected.
🗣 Final Thoughts
Group G at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 isn’t just about big names — it’s about what happens when legends meet the hungry, disciplined, and fearless. From Manchester City’s star power to Wydad’s fire, Juventus’ tactical craft, and Al Ain’s structure, every match will have stakes, stories, and moments to remember.
Expect upsets, drama, and a global football showcase at its finest.
📲 For more Group G previews, stadium guides, and Club World Cup coverage, visit soccernpopcorn.com and follow us in Instagram @soccernpopcorn
I’m a Brazilian copywriter and the voice behind Soccer n Popcorn. I’ve been in love with football for as long as I can remember — especially the electric energy of stadiums and the stories that unfold off the pitch. From fan chants to behind-the-scenes rituals, I’m here to explore everything that makes the game more than just 90 minutes.
