Sebastian Kehl Jokes About Messis Influence on Club World Cup Pitches

In the lead-up to Borussia Dortmund’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025 opener against Fluminense, sporting director Sebastian Kehl made a tongue-in-cheek comment about the pitch conditions in the United States, joking that Lionel Messi "decides the height of the grass." His remarks came amid broader criticism over pitch quality at the tournament. The newly expanded 32-team Club World Cup has already faced backlash, especially after a goalless draw between Porto and Palmeiras at the MetLife Stadium, where both managers complained about the poor turf. Monterrey's vice-president also criticized the lack of proper training facilities.

Kehl acknowledged that Dortmund is adapting well, mentioning that their training pitch has short grass and is well-maintained, even if the match balls and surface are slightly different. Despite these minor inconveniences, he stressed nothing was hindering the team’s preparations.