Serie A and LaLiga hit back at ‘excessive’ EU criticism as both leagues plan overseas matches
Elite leagues defend decisions to play matches outside of Europe
- EU Sports Commissioner Glenn Micallef criticised plans by Italy's Serie A and Spain's LaLiga to stage domestic matches outside Europe, branding the move a "betrayal" of fans.
- Serie A intends to stage a match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, while LaLiga hopes to move Villarreal's game against Barcelona to Miami.
- Micallef stated that European competitions and football should remain in Europe, arguing that moving matches abroad is not innovation but a betrayal of loyal fans and local communities.
- Both Serie A and LaLiga defended their proposals, asserting that staging a single match abroad promotes their leagues globally and introduces new audiences to their sport.
- While the Italian and Spanish football federations have approved the plans, both proposed matches still require final approval from UEFA and FIFA.