U.S. President Donald Trump made the unexpected announcement that he has the FIFA Club World Cup trophy—which was ostensibly given to him during FIFA President Gianni Infantino's trip to the White House in March—in a stunning turn of events following the worldwide football match.

During the visit, Trump told DAZN, which now has the rights to the AFL and NRL, that he was given the trophy and that it was never returned to him.

"They said, 'Could you hold this trophy for a little while?' We put it in the Oval Office," Trump said.

"I then asked him, 'When are you going to pick up the trophy?' He replied, 'We're never going to pick it up. You can have it forever in the Oval Office. We're making a new one.'" "And they actually built a new one. That was really fascinating... it's in the Oval right now."

At the same March press conference, Infantino had jokingly told Trump that the trophy could remain if he enjoyed it, at least until July 13, when it would have to be brought to the stadium for the championship match. "Let's leave it here," Trump retorted with a smile.

Trump's presence extended beyond mere political theatrics. He was seen slipping the winner's medal, which he got on the winners' podium during the trophy presentation, into his pocket.

Many athletes were perplexed by the event. Cole Palmer, who won both Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, was seen to be perplexed and reportedly questioned, "Why is Trump here?" while exchanging glances with captain Reece James.

Later, Palmer explained, "I knew he was going to be here, but I was a little perplexed because I didn't know he was going to be on the stand when we lifted the trophy."

Palmer guided Chelsea to an amazing last triumph, silencing his detractors and hoisting the trophy after a fantastic competition, despite off-field distractions. Under the new head coach Enzo Maresca, his counter-pressing and offensive fluidity were crucial.

"It feels fantastic." It's much better because, as Palmer put it, "everyone obviously doubted us before the game."

"The gaffer laid out a fantastic game plan, and he clearly knew where the space would be."

In addition to bringing silverware to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea's victory also emphasized Palmer's growing importance as a vital member of Maresca's new system.

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