UEFA rejects La Liga in the US as Villarreal vs. Barcelona face venue uncertainty

The Villarreal vs. Barcelona clash, scheduled for December 21, 2025, in the 17th round of La Liga, has become the center of an international debate. While La Liga president Javier Tebas supports staging the game in Miami, USA, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has strongly opposed the plan, calling for talks with FIFA and national federations.

Ceferin Pushes Back Against La Liga Abroad

Ceferin expressed his dissatisfaction in an interview reproduced by Sport:

“We’re not happy. Football should be played in Europe. Fans can’t travel to Australia or the United States to watch their favorite team. This tradition must be respected,” he warned.

The UEFA president insisted that he would open discussions with FIFA and domestic federations to prevent European competitions from moving abroad. “If there’s a serious reason, fine. But in principle, European teams should play in Europe, for the supporters who live here,” he added.

Barcelona and Laporta Also Involved

Ceferin also revealed that he recently spoke with Barcelona president Joan Laporta regarding both the match and Champions League matters.

“I had a meeting with him. It was productive, but not a negotiation. The system and format won’t change, that’s clear,” he confirmed.

He further noted that Barcelona and Real Madrid remain essential members of the European football family, despite frequent tensions with UEFA leadership.

Context: Club Football in the U.S.

The debate gained momentum after the 2025 FIFA Super Club World Cup was staged in the United States. Chelsea emerged as champions, while Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and PSG also participated.

Ceferin acknowledged the tournament’s commercial pull but maintained UEFA’s distance:

“The clubs wanted to play, mainly for economic reasons. UEFA doesn’t fully control club football, but I don’t agree with staging these competitions outside Europe,” he concluded.

What Happens Next

For now, Villarreal vs. Barcelona remains on the calendar for December 21, but the venue is still undecided. La Liga wants Miami, UEFA wants Spain, and FIFA is expected to weigh in on the final decision.

If confirmed in the U.S., the fixture would mark a historic first for La Liga, but also deepen the rift between domestic leagues, UEFA, and global football authorities.