Confirmation that Saudi Arabia had won the right to host the World Cup came in December. On the field, the Club World Cup was the first chance for the country to make a global statement about the growth of its domestic game, which is largely unheralded outside of Asia.

Discover how Al Hilal's sensational victory over Manchester City in the Club World Cup reflects Saudi Arabia's ambitious rise in global football, challenging European dominance and showcasing the talents of a world-class team.

FIFA's Infantino tried to get Ronaldo to Club World Cup, but Saudi Arabia's ambitions and rivalries got in the way.