LaLiga players have launched protests in response to the league’s decision to stage regular-season games in Miami, with the first protests occurring during the recent match between Real Oviedo and Espanyol.
As players paused for 15 seconds at kickoff to express their discontent, the world television feed cut away to the stadium’s exterior, missing the protest segment entirely.
The protests are a direct reaction to LaLiga’s announcement to host a Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami on December 20.
The Spanish soccer players’ union stated that the players would conduct these symbolic protests to highlight concerns over LaLiga’s lack of transparency and dialogue regarding its decision-making process.
According to the union, the captains from all 20 LaLiga teams have agreed to this protest.
However, the union clarified that it did not request the participation of Barcelona or Villarreal players, even though they support the fundamental idea behind the demonstrations.
Espanyol captain Leandro Cabrera voiced his thoughts on the situation, stating, “All we ask for is transparency, respect, and coherence … They [LaLiga] want to meet when all the tickets are already sold [for the Miami game], and by then there’s no turning back.”
Cabrera emphasized the need for an open dialogue, questioning why discussions were not happening before the arrangements were finalized.
The situation is particularly contentious as Barcelona prepares to face Girona and Villarreal is set to host Real Betis shortly after.
On the same day, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed discontent with the extensive travel required, stating, “My players are not happy, I am not happy, but LaLiga decided that we will play this game.”
Flick’s comments reflect the broader concern among players about the increasing demands of travel, particularly with a busy holiday schedule ahead.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has defended the Miami match, arguing that it presents an opportunity for the league to penetrate the American sports market.
In contrast, players like Frenkie de Jong have criticized the extensive travel demands, noting that the packed schedule is already taxing for athletes.
In addition to the Miami match, Barcelona is slated to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup starting January 7.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas has asserted the need for international matches, describing them as essential for boosting the league’s revenue and enhancing the value of its television rights, which currently fall short when compared to the Premier League.
Tebas envisions making international matches an annual tradition, positioning them as significant for the league’s future growth.
The upcoming match is set to take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, home to the NFL’s Miami Dolphins, with LaLiga estimating that they will bring approximately 2,000 to 3,000 fans from Villarreal to support the home team.
With both league officials and players entrenched in their perspectives, the conflict over international matches continues to unfold, raising questions about the future trajectory of LaLiga amidst growing global interests.
image source from：africa
