Overview

• LaLiga president Javier Tebas confirmed Villarreal vs. Barcelona will be played at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on December 20.
• Frenkie de Jong said he does not agree with the decision, calling it unfair for the competition and detrimental to players given the long travel.
• De Jong acknowledged the commercial motive to grow global brands but insisted he would not accept playing a league match in the United States.
• Netherlands coach and former Barça manager Ronald Koeman backed de Jong, calling the plan ridiculous and arguing a neutral venue disadvantages Villarreal.
• Football Espana reported UEFA reluctantly approved the match earlier this week, while FIFA’s final sign-off has not yet been made official.