Athletic Club star slams Barcelona vs Villarreal match in Miami – ‘Lack of respect for the fans’ | OneFootball

Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon has made his stance clear regarding the decision to host the La Liga clash between Villarreal and Barcelona in the United States.

The match, scheduled for 20 December at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, has already sparked heavy debate within Spanish football.

Real Madrid were the first to voice their opposition after the Spanish federation approved the game being moved abroad. Their official statement was strong, warning of “all kinds of measures to prevent the competition from being adulterated.”

Now, one of Athletic’s most respected figures has joined the criticism, even as his club maintains an official silence on the matter.

Defending the fans

When asked for his opinion, Simon did not mince words. “It’s a lack of respect for the fans. It’s something that would seem wrong to me at Athletic and at any other club,” he said, making it clear that his loyalty lies with the supporters.

STUTTGART, GERMANY – JUNE 05: Unai Simon of Spain reacts during the UEFA Nations League 2025 semifinal match between Spain and France at Stuttgart Arena on June 05, 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Simon spoke passionately about the role of supporters, stressing that football belongs to them as much as to the players.

“Football is not only part of the members and fans, but it is the people who have brought us to where we are. If it weren’t for them, football wouldn’t exist,” he stated.

Villarreal president Juan Roig has promised to cover the travel expenses for fans who want to make the trip to Miami, but Simon believes this misses the bigger point.

“If it were Athletic’s turn to go to Miami, I don’t see it. Although in the end the club pays for the trip and the ticket, there are many fans who cannot make that trip.

“For them, it is a lost day, a day that they are left without seeing their players live,” he argued.

Simon also shared his thoughts on teammate Nico Williams, whose summer was marked by failed negotiations with Barcelona before committing his future to Athletic.

“At Athletic, you can also be a top world player. Beyond staying after renewing, when you prioritise Athletic over other top clubs, it means that the sporting project we have at the club and the impact it has is spoken of very well,” he said.

Source: Mundo Deportivo