The possibility of moving Villarreal-Barça to Miami continues to generate debate in Spain and Europe. UEFA is cautiously studying the proposal, while LaLiga defends its initiative and several actors in Spanish soccer express their rejection.
The controversial proposal
Two weeks ago, RFEF submitted LaLiga's request to UEFA for one of its matches in the 17th matchday to be played outside Spain. In this case, the proposal is for the match between Villarreal and Barcelona to take place in Miami on December 20.
LaLiga argues that this is an opportunity for international expansion, while critics claim that moving a regular league match could affect sporting fairness. In Italy, Lega proposed a similar case for Milan-Como in Australia. There, resistance has been lower, since San Siro will be occupied by the Winter Olympic Games.
Diverging opinions
According to Mundo Deportivo, opposition in Spain is significant. Real Madrid and AFE, with the signatures of the captains of the 42 teams in the First and Second Divisions, have expressed their opposition. Football Supporters Europe has also spoken out.
Meanwhile, LaLiga and the clubs involved defend the measure. Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga, stated that this match "is just one of the 380 in the season." However, the European Commissioner for Sport, Glenn Micallef, made it clear that "European soccer must be played in Europe."
The complexity of the decision
At the UEFA level, the issue is delicate. An approval could set an important precedent for future competitions. In addition, it would require strict regulations on the number of matches outside Europe, the maximum distance, and which teams could participate.
Moreover, even if UEFA gives the green light, the final decision would fall to FIFA, which would have to validate the proposal. The complexity is not only logistical, but also legal and sporting.
The key date
After weeks of analysis and debate, the final decision will be made on September 11, during UEFA's Executive Committee in Tirana, Albania. On that day, it will be decided whether Villarreal-Barça will be played in Miami or kept in Spain. This match could set a historic precedent in LaLiga's history.
Meanwhile, the controversy will continue to grow and opinions will remain divided. What's at stake is much more than a single match: it's the future regulation of European soccer and how national championships are conceived outside their borders.