Aoba Tanaka 
Manchester City secured its first-ever Fifa Club World Cup title by defeating Brazilian team Fluminense in Saudi Arabia, with Julian Alvarez shining with 2 goals in a 4-0 victory. The win marks City’s fifth trophy in a calendar year, a feat unmatched by any English side before.
The action-packed final began with Alvarez’s quick goal after just 40 seconds, setting the tone for City’s dominance. They doubled their lead in the 27th minute when Fluminense’s Nino accidentally turned Phil Foden’s cross into his own net. Foden later found the back of the net himself in the second half, and Alvarez completed his brace in the 88th minute with a clinical finish.
The triumph in Jeddah adds to City’s remarkable year, following their Treble of Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League victories last season, along with the Uefa Super Cup in August. The Club World Cup victory solidifies City’s position among the elite English clubs, emulating Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea in lifting the prestigious trophy.
Manager Pep Guardiola expressed his joy, stating, “It was an incredible year. Today we closed the chapter. We won everything we could. Now time to try again.” However, the celebration was slightly tempered by the sight of influential midfielder Rodri leaving the field injured in the second half.
Guardiola had emphasized the importance of winning the Club World Cup to complete City’s collection, making a strong statement by fielding a formidable lineup. The victory not only showcases City’s dominance on the global stage but also bolsters their confidence as they return to Premier League action.
City’s next challenge is an away game against Everton on December 27, where they will aim to use the momentum from their Club World Cup triumph to reignite their Premier League title defense. The victory in Saudi Arabia adds another glorious chapter to Manchester City’s historic year.
