Looking back at world football in 2025: PSG's peak, MU's downfall

The global football scene in 2025 saw remarkable events, ranging from PSG’s landmark title to MU’s most disappointing season, plus significant happenings with Ronaldo, Messi, and Jota.

1. The tragedy of the Jota brothers

In July 2025, Diogo Jota and his brother André tragically died in a severe car accident in Spain. The sudden loss of the Liverpool striker, just 10 days after his wedding, shocked the football world and left fans grieving.

2. PSG reaches the Champions League summit for the first time

After more than a decade pursuing the Champions League dream, PSG finally claimed the title in the 2024/25 season thanks to a strategy focused on building a youthful, united squad under Luis Enrique. Their 5-0 victory over Inter in the final capped a historic season, with Ousmane Dembélé winning the Ballon d’Or.

3. New FIFA Club World Cup format and Chelsea’s shock victory

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup introduced a new format for the first time in the USA. Reigning Champions League winners PSG entered the final as favorites, but Chelsea stunned everyone by winning 3-0 to become the tournament’s first champions under the new system.

4. MU’s incredible comeback

MU staged one of the most dramatic comebacks in European football by beating Lyon 5-4 in the Europa League semi-final second leg. After trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Reds allowed Lyon to equalize in the second half and then fell behind by two more goals in extra time. Just when all seemed lost, MU rallied to score three late goals and complete a legendary comeback.

5. Liverpool’s extravagant spending in the transfer market

After winning the Premier League under Arne Slot, Liverpool broke the English transfer record twice by signing Florian Wirtz (£116 million) and Alexander Isak (£124 million). Despite spending over £400 million, The Kop’s performance declined compared to the previous season.

6. Messi completes his trophy collection in the USA

Lionel Messi led Inter Miami to win the 2025 MLS Cup after a flawless playoff run. This title completed his collection of major trophies in the USA, following the Leagues Cup (2023) and Supporters' Shield (2024).

7. Ronaldo and the Nations League title

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal defeated Spain to win the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League. In the final, CR7 played brilliantly, assisting Nuno Mendes’s goal before scoring the equalizer to make it 2-2. Portugal then triumphed 5-3 on penalties.

This was CR7’s first major trophy in five years, providing a morale boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

8. Neymar returns to save Santos

Despite not being in peak condition, Neymar carried Santos to successfully avoid relegation in 2025. He finished the season with 11 goals, 4 assists, and helped the club qualify for the Copa Sudamericana.

9. MU’s disastrous season

MU endured their worst Premier League era season in 2024/25, finishing 15th with 18 losses. Their defeat in the Europa League final deepened fans’ disappointment.

10. Mohamed Salah’s controversial interview

Benched and frustrated, Salah exploded in an interview criticizing both Liverpool and coach Arne Slot. Although he later apologized, his words were seen as a sign that his departure from Anfield was imminent.