Spanish Players Launch Kickoff Protests Over LaLiga’s Barcelona–Villarreal Match in Miami

Overview

• Spain’s players’ union AFE said brief stoppages will occur at the start of every Round 9 match this weekend to oppose shifting Barcelona–Villarreal to the United States.
• LaLiga decided the on-field pauses will not be shown live during broadcasts, with stadium shots used instead.
• AFE stated Barcelona and Villarreal players would be excluded to avoid targeting a club, though Cadena Cope reported Barcelona’s squad intends to participate.
• The Barcelona–Villarreal league fixture is set for December 20 in Miami after UEFA granted one-off approval despite its stated opposition to domestic games abroad.
• Reporting indicates Barcelona will receive roughly €5 million for the game, as supporter groups from both clubs had previously voiced total opposition.