Low-key build-up to Club World Cup in Miami
- Published
Hello from sunny Miami.
It's a balmy 30C here in the United States as the South Florida city gears up for the start of the Club World Cup on Saturday.
I've just picked up my accreditation for the tournament from the Hard Rock Stadium, which hosts the opening game between Inter Miami and Egyptian side Al Ahly on Saturday.
Star attraction Lionel Messi's face is dotted around in places, but unlike when I was in Qatar for the World Cup three years ago, it does not really feel like the start of a global tournament.
I was expecting to be bombarded with banners and adverts for this expanded event, but so far there has been little sign of a soccer spectacle about to roll into town.
With two days still go to, it is all rather low key at the moment, but that should change once the stadiums have been filled and the first ball has been kicked.
I'll be covering Manchester City over here, with the first game for Pep Guardiola's side against Wydad Casablanca in Philadelphia on Wednesday.