UEFA delay decision over Villarreal vs Barcelona being played in the US | OneFootball

The UEFA Executive Committee met in Tirana on Thursday, confirming Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium as the host of the 2027 men’s Champions League final and Warsaw’s National Stadium for the women’s edition.

But another topic that was on the agenda and was discussed nevertheless was the controversial proposal for Barcelona’s December 20 league match against Villarreal to be played in Miami, reports SPORT.

This is something that La Liga has long been chasing, and despite strong opposition from the AFE, president Javier Tebas is determined to make things happen.

However, La Liga would require support from UEFA in order to move a step closer towards hosting the Barcelona-Villarreal game in Miami.

UEFA’s statement on Barcelona-Villarreal game

Despite discussions in Tirana, UEFA stopped short of making a definitive ruling. Instead, it issued a non-reactive statement, suggesting that it wishes to hear the views of all stakeholders involved.

Tebas is keen on La Liga matches being played abroad. (Photo by Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images For Sportel)

“The committee acknowledged that this is an important and increasingly relevant issue, but expressed its desire to ensure that the views of all stakeholders are taken into account before making a final decision,” UEFA said in a statement.

Consultations will now likely be held with clubs, leagues, federations, and fans before any decision is formalised.

With UEFA unlikely to block the proposal, the final word could fall to CSD, Spain’s higher sports council.

Education and Sports Minister Pilar Alegria made her stance clear this week: “I am in favour of national competitions being played in Spain. We have large cities, enormous stadiums, and great fans,” she said.

Keeping that in mind, it will be interesting to see how things transpire in the coming weeks as La Liga looks to continue pushing for a Miami game between Barcelona and Villarreal in December.