Villarreal manager opines on playing Barcelona in the US – ‘Will accept whatever is decided’ | OneFootball

Villarreal manager Marcelino has expressed his support for the idea of playing their upcoming La Liga home fixture against Barcelona in Miami, despite the fact that the proposal has been met with significant criticism from other quarters.

The potential relocation of the match, scheduled for December 20, would mark a rare move in Spanish football, but Marcelino made it clear he will align with the club’s stance on the matter.

Marcelino stated that if the home match is eventually confirmed to take place in Miami, they will accept it “very willingly” as it would reflect the club’s wishes.

“At the time, we will see if it is played or not and whatever is decided, we will accept very willingly, because our president, our club and the competition will determine it, so we cannot refuse,” he said during a press conference ahead of Villarreal’s clash with Oviedo.

The coach also reiterated, “We are professionals, we are going to accept what the club considers most appropriate for its own interests and what the competition determines.”

Work is being carried out

Barcelona could play Villarreal in Miami. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

It is to be noted that the decision is not yet finalised.

In fact, this week, the Spanish Football Federation’s board of directors, following a request from La Liga, formally reached out to UEFA and FIFA seeking authorisation for the match to be staged in the United States.

Meanwhile, it has also come to light that Villarreal president Fernando Roig has openly welcomed the possibility, believing it could enhance both the club’s profile and that of the league.

To encourage fan participation, he has offered free flights to Miami for season ticket holders who wish to attend, or alternatively, a 20% discount on their season passes.

However, not everyone is on board, as Real Madrid have voiced their opposition, arguing that playing the match abroad would give Barcelona an unfair advantage by effectively reducing the number of away games they face during the season.

Source: SPORT