The possibility of the Villarreal vs Barcelona clash, corresponding to Matchday 17 of LaLiga EA Sports, being staged in Miami remains up in the air. Meeting in Tirana, the UEFA Executive Committee decided not to rule on the request submitted by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and announced it will instead open a round of consultations with all parties involved, including fan groups.

What did UEFA say about the Miami match?

In an official statement, UEFA acknowledged that this is an “important and increasingly relevant issue” that requires the analysis of multiple factors before authorizing a domestic league match outside European territory. The body clarified that “no decision has been taken today” and that it will launch discussions with federations, clubs, and fan associations.

UEFA has historically been reluctant to allow national league matches to be moved abroad, as Spain now attempts with Villarreal–Barça, or Italy with Milan vs Como in Perth (Australia) scheduled for February due to San Siro’s use during the Winter Games.

What do clubs and players think about the change?

Real Madrid has expressed outright rejection of the initiative, arguing that it undermines the principle of territorial reciprocity that governs home-and-away league formats. According to Los Blancos, it would give “an undue sporting advantage” to teams promoting the measure.

The Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) also voiced opposition after meeting with the captains of LaLiga clubs, describing the project as “a lack of respect” due to the absence of dialogue with the players.

And what about the fans?

Supporters’ associations, including Football Supporters Europe and Spain’s FASFE, have joined the rejection, warning that “passion cannot be exported.” For them, taking matches away from their local context strips leagues of their cultural essence.