Michael Olise, Sergio Ramos & Others Shine – But No Manchester City Players in Club World Cup Group Stage XI

Club World Cup group stage team of the tournament features stars from PSG, Real Madrid, Benfica & more – but Guardiola’s men miss out

Manchester City may have cruised through the group stage of the 2025 Club World Cup with a flawless record, but none of Pep Guardiola’s players have made it into GOAL’s Team of the Group Stage. And while eyebrows may be raised, the decision highlights the tactical depth and squad rotation that allowed City to dominate without relying on any single standout performer.

That said, other teams saw individuals rise above the rest, turning in inspired performances on football’s global stage. From veteran defenders still defying age to emerging attacking forces lighting up the pitch, this XI reflects a truly international mix of talent that shaped the early weeks of the tournament.

GK: Yassine Bounou (Al-Hilal)

Real Madrid CF v Al Hilal: Group  Stage H – FIFA Club World Cup 2025 

Al-Hilal’s success in the group stage owed much to their Moroccan wall in goal. Yassine Bounou delivered masterclasses in shot-stopping, notably against Real Madrid on matchday one, and followed it up with back-to-back clean sheets against Red Bull Salzburg and Pachuca. Without him, the Saudi giants may well have fallen short.

RB: Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)

Seattle Sounders FC v Paris Saint-Germain FC: Group B – FIFA Club World Cup 2025

If there’s a more complete modern full-back than Hakimi, we’re yet to see him. His blend of pace, defensive awareness, and attacking verve has been central to PSG’s campaign. A goal against Seattle Sounders capped another electric performance as the French side topped Group B.

CB: Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica)

Benfica’s campaign was expected to end in the group stage, especially after being drawn with Bayern Munich. But with Otamendi marshalling the defence with intelligence and aggression, they shocked the Germans to finish top. At 37, the Argentine still dominates the defensive third with supreme authority.

CB: Sergio Ramos (Monterrey)

The man needs no introduction. At 39, Sergio Ramos etched his name into the record books again, becoming the oldest goalscorer in Club World Cup history. His leadership and poise helped Monterrey to the best defensive record of the group stage. Age really is just a number for the Spanish legend.

LB: Fran Garcia (Real Madrid)

Garcia may not command the headlines like some of his Real Madrid teammates, but his performances at left-back have been quietly superb. The 25-year-old featured in every minute of the group stage, defending diligently while also delivering an assist for Jude Bellingham in their 3-1 win over Pachuca.

CM: Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal)

Much was made of Neves’ move to the Saudi Pro League, but the Portuguese midfielder is proving that class travels well. He dictated tempo, covered ground and scored a crucial penalty in the 1-1 draw with Real Madrid, underscoring his enduring quality and importance to Al-Hilal’s ambitions.

CM: Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)

Fernandez has finally settled into his role at Chelsea, and it shows. The Argentine World Cup winner has been the engine of the Blues’ midfield in the United States. A goal against LAFC and two assists versus Esperance de Tunis have underlined his growing influence and creativity.

RW: Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)

Bayern’s summer acquisition from Crystal Palace is already paying dividends. Michael Olise has been involved in more goals than any other player so far, with five contributions. He’s also tops in dribbles completed, offering a terrifying combination of flair and final product. A genuine breakout star.

AM: Giorgian de Arrascaeta (Flamengo)

Flamengo’s stylish brand of football has been spearheaded by the mercurial de Arrascaeta. His goal against Esperance and standout showing versus LAFC helped the Brazilian side top their group ahead of Chelsea. The 31-year-old remains one of South America’s most underrated playmakers.

LW: Jhon Arias (Fluminense)

Arias was tipped to impress — and he has delivered. The Colombian winger dazzled against Borussia Dortmund and Ulsan HD with two man of the match displays. His pace and flair have made him a transfer target, and Fluminense have him to thank for their momentum in the tournament.

CF: Igor Jesus (Botafogo)

Botafogo’s main man up front has shown why Nottingham Forest were so keen to sign him before the tournament. Goals against Seattle and PSG cemented his reputation as a natural finisher and big-game player. He’s been arguably the most decisive striker of the group stage.

No Room for City, But Their Shadow Looms

Manchester City fans might be wondering how their team, the only one with a perfect group stage record, ended up without a single representative. The answer lies in their collective brilliance. Guardiola rotated heavily, with no player dominating or playing every match. In a way, City’s absence from the team of the group stage only reinforces how complete and balanced their squad truly is.

But when it comes to individual accolades, this XI has rightly gone to those who seized the spotlight — and in some cases, rewrote history.

With the knockout rounds now looming, the stage is set for new heroes to emerge — and perhaps for City’s stars to make their belated claim for glory.