La Liga president Javier Tebas has reignited excitement and debate, revealing that the potential Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami.
La Liga’s ambition to expand its global footprint has been a topic of heated discussion, with plans to bring Spanish football to new markets stirring both excitement and controversy.
As the league looks to strengthen its presence in the United States, a significant update has emerged regarding a high-profile match, sparking debates about tradition and accessibility for fans.
Javier Tebas, La Liga’s president, has confirmed that the proposed Villarreal vs. Barcelona match, potentially set for December 21 in Miami, now awaits UEFA’s final approval, as reported by Diario Sport.
Speaking at the Business Sport Forum, Tebas emphasized the urgency of a decision, citing extensive preparations involving clubs, officials, and former players to promote the event.
He underscored the strategic importance of the U.S., La Liga’s second-largest market, arguing that hosting the match would boost the competition’s brand value beyond just the game itself.
Tebas defended the move against criticism that it disadvantages Spanish fans, asserting that U.S. supporters are equally passionate, purchasing merchandise and subscriptions to watch La Liga.
“Fans in the United States also pay to watch Spanish football, they also suffer when their team loses, they also celebrate,” he said, highlighting Villarreal’s 50 football schools in the U.S., including 10 in Florida.
He dismissed claims of unfairness as “almost sectarian,” emphasizing that the global fanbase, connected through a “virtual stand,” deserves access to live matches.
The La Liga chief insisted that hosting one match abroad is a logical step to grow the brand, allowing international fans to experience Spanish football firsthand.
“Twenty years ago, the supporter was the one in the stadium, but we have expanded that virtual stand across the world,” Tebas stated.
As the wait continues, the proposed Miami match could mark a historic moment for La Liga’s international expansion.
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