Club World Cup Reveals Hidden Gems: Real Madrid's Shocking Discovery and Premier League's Rising Star
Global competitions consistently serve as stages where relatively unknown talents emerge as recognized stars, and the Club World Cup has followed this tradition perfectly.
From rising young prospects to experienced players awaiting their breakthrough moment, the Club World Cup has showcased several individuals who might regard this tournament as the catalyst for advancing their professional journeys.
Below are five standout performers from the 2025 Club World Cup.
Gonzalo García
There's no other place to start. The 2025 Club World Cup will be forever linked with Gonzalo García's remarkable story.
When Kylian Mbappé fell ill at the tournament's beginning, Real Madrid supporters were deeply concerned. With Endrick also sidelined through injury and transfer rumors surrounding Rodrygo making his central striker role uncertain, new coach Xabi Alonso faced the challenging task of depending on a Castilla academy player on the world stage.
García had only featured sporadically in senior matches before this summer but has completely capitalized on his chance. Drawing parallels to club legend Raúl after a group phase where he contributed goals or assists in every match, his clinical finishing continued throughout the elimination rounds.
Within weeks of supporters being hesitant to trust him, García is now being considered for a permanent spot in Alonso's first team next season amid reports of costly transfer bids. His entire trajectory has transformed in just thirty days.
Richard Ríos
International viewers initially tuned in to watch Palmeiras for teenage sensation Estêvão before his Chelsea transfer. While the young winger delivered, it was combative midfielder Richard Ríos who made the most lasting impact.
At 25, Ríos isn't unfamiliar to South American audiences, having also shone during Copa América 2024 with Colombia, but his exceptional midfield displays this summer have introduced him to European fans who are now eager to see him compete regularly at the highest level.
Ríos epitomizes the complete midfielder, excelling in offensive phases—recording two assists during the round of 16 and quarterfinals—while also being disruptive defensively. His eight interceptions ranked joint-second when Palmeiras was eliminated, and he topped the tournament in successful ground duels with 30.
Despite signing a fresh contract recently, this appears to be the ideal moment for Ríos's comprehensive abilities to earn him a European move.
Nelson Deossa
Similar to Ríos, Monterrey's Nelson Deossa represents another dynamic midfielder who has maximized his opportunity to shine this summer—highlighted by his spectacular strike against Urawa Red Diamonds in the group phase.
The 25-year-old Deossa impressed against Urawa, Inter and River Plate during the group stage, but his outstanding display in the round of 16 loss to Borussia Dortmund truly established him as a tournament revelation.
Strategic thinking defined Deossa's approach this summer, timing his tackles perfectly while knowing precisely when to turn and drive forward with possession. The Colombian combines speed with tight ball control and appears equally comfortable handling defensive responsibilities.
This playing style seems perfectly suited for European football, where clubs are reportedly already queuing up to secure his services.
Igor Jesus
Igor Jesus had been tentatively connected with several Premier League clubs across multiple transfer windows before Nottingham Forest committed to a £10 million ($13.6 million) acquisition in June.
That investment already appears brilliant for Forest, who witnessed Jesus score twice in four appearances for Botafogo, including the decisive goal against Paris Saint-Germain in group play. The player nicknamed Little Frog—earned due to his proportionally large head as a youngster—commanded attention with impressive performances as a focal point, combining strength with clever positioning to create scoring opportunities. His Dragon Ball Z celebrations became a signature feature.
His relatively modest stature is misleading. Jesus relishes physical battles with defenders and poses an aerial threat, yet he offers much more than just brute force. The 24-year-old understands game situations and uses his frame to exploit gaps, whether spinning past defenders or setting up teammates.
Jesus appears to be a more agile version of Chris Wood, and considering Wood recently netted 20 league goals approaching his 34th birthday, this should alert Premier League clubs.
Jhon Arias
Fluminense's Jhon Arias reached the Club World Cup semifinals leading the tournament with 17 chances created. After facing Dortmund, Inter and Al Hilal to that stage, the 27-year-old simply cannot be overlooked.
Arias's breakthrough season occurred in 2023, anchoring Fluminense's Copa Libertadores victory, but he has continued developing as a late-developing talent. The 27-year-old lacks elite athleticism and doesn't always catch the eye during casual observation, given his thoughtful approach to matches.
He excels at finding space, possessing remarkable patience to wait for the right moment, shield off defenders and deliver the optimal pass. Arias's displays have earned him the moniker Colombian Pelé which, though clearly playful, demonstrates his significant influence across South America.
With his 28th birthday approaching in September, it's unlikely many top clubs will pursue Arias's signature, but those same teams may regret their hesitation if a smaller club isn't deterred by his age.