Shay Given Backs Manchester City to Win FIFA Club World Cup

Former Manchester City and Celtic goalkeeper, Shay Given, has tipped Manchester City to win the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, highlighting manager Pep Guardiola’s hunger for success and the prestige tied to the global tournament.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Given said Guardiola would be eager to lead City to their first-ever Club World Cup title, especially as it offers a chance to cement their dominance on the world stage and claim a coveted gold champions badge.

“I think Guardiola will see this as an opportunity to make a bit of history as a club – the first one, get that gold badge on their chest for the next four years. They will be world champions, and that’s a big statement,” Given said, as quoted by Goal.

The former Republic of Ireland international noted that Guardiola, known for his competitive edge, would not take the competition lightly, even if it means facing his former player Lionel Messi, who now stars for Inter Miami—one of the teams in the tournament.

“He’ll be hurting on the back of not winning anything,” Given added, referring to City’s recent FA Cup loss to Crystal Palace. “I’m sure that he wants to get his hands on this trophy.”

Given also pointed to the Club World Cup’s financial rewards and the global bragging rights as strong motivators for the reigning UEFA Champions League winners.

With a strengthened squad and Guardiola’s drive, Given believes Manchester City are in prime position to lift the trophy when the tournament kicks off in the coming days.

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