LaLiga players protest over Barca's US fixture
LaLiga players have staged symbolic protests at the start of most matches this weekend over the league's decision to stage a game in the United States in December, the Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) has said.
Oviedo and Espanyol players stood still in the first 15 seconds of their LaLiga clash in the first protest, demanding better transparency and dialogue from authorities.
Players of Barcelona and Villarreal, whose teams are scheduled to play in Miami on 21 December (AEDT), have been kept out of the initiative "to avoid the protest action being interpreted as a possible measure against any club," the players' union said.
But Barca players also joined the protest. When Girona kicked off against in their Catalan derby, players from both sides stood motionless for 15 seconds.
"In view of LaLiga's constant refusals and unrealistic proposals, the Spanish Footballers' Association categorically rejects a project that does not have the approval of the main protagonists of our sport," an AFE statement read.
LaLiga confirmed earlier this month that Barca's away game against Villarreal would take place in Miami, after European soccer governing body UEFA's reluctant approval.
Real Madrid had opposed the decision in August, saying it could undermine football's competitive balance.
Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) President Rafael Louzan on Thursday defended the decision to move the match, calling it a "reward for fans".
The AFE wanted league authorities to share information, analyse the "exceptional characteristics of the project" and address the needs and concerns of the players.
