La Liga Players Unite in Protest Over US Game Amid Heavy Travel Concerns
In a dramatic show of solidarity, Spanish soccer players are set to stage a protest on-field this weekend as La Liga pushes forward with its ambitious plans to host regular season games in the United States. The ninth round kicked off earlier today with Oviedo hosting Espanyol, but the real action is expected to unfold during the upcoming Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami.
The players' union has announced that team captains will pause for 15 seconds after kickoff as a symbolic gesture of protest, denouncing La Liga's lack of transparency, dialogue, and coherence regarding its plans. This move comes as the league seeks to boost revenues through international matches, with president Javier Tebas claiming it could increase television rights value.
However, concerns over player welfare have dominated the narrative. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed his team's discontent, stating that the 7,200km journey to Miami was unwarranted and added to an already packed schedule. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong echoed these sentiments, emphasizing players' heavy travel load.
La Liga has chartered planes for what it estimates will be around 2,000-3,000 fans from Villarreal, which is hosting the match in Miami. Hard Rock Stadium, home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins, is set to host this historic game on December 20.
As La Liga takes its stand amidst international competition, players and coaches alike are questioning the long-term benefits of playing games abroad. The union's protest is a potent reminder that professional sports should prioritize player welfare and safety above commercial interests.
Despite Tebas' claims of revenue growth, many are left wondering if the costs outweigh the gains for La Liga. The players have spoken out against what they see as excessive travel, and their actions will undoubtedly raise questions about the sustainability of this new venture.
In a dramatic show of solidarity, Spanish soccer players are set to stage a protest on-field this weekend as La Liga pushes forward with its ambitious plans to host regular season games in the United States. The ninth round kicked off earlier today with Oviedo hosting Espanyol, but the real action is expected to unfold during the upcoming Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami.
The players' union has announced that team captains will pause for 15 seconds after kickoff as a symbolic gesture of protest, denouncing La Liga's lack of transparency, dialogue, and coherence regarding its plans. This move comes as the league seeks to boost revenues through international matches, with president Javier Tebas claiming it could increase television rights value.
However, concerns over player welfare have dominated the narrative. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed his team's discontent, stating that the 7,200km journey to Miami was unwarranted and added to an already packed schedule. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong echoed these sentiments, emphasizing players' heavy travel load.
La Liga has chartered planes for what it estimates will be around 2,000-3,000 fans from Villarreal, which is hosting the match in Miami. Hard Rock Stadium, home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins, is set to host this historic game on December 20.
As La Liga takes its stand amidst international competition, players and coaches alike are questioning the long-term benefits of playing games abroad. The union's protest is a potent reminder that professional sports should prioritize player welfare and safety above commercial interests.
Despite Tebas' claims of revenue growth, many are left wondering if the costs outweigh the gains for La Liga. The players have spoken out against what they see as excessive travel, and their actions will undoubtedly raise questions about the sustainability of this new venture.