Villarreal has issued a statement expressing strong discontent with La Liga after their match against Barcelona, set for December 20 in the United States, was canceled. La Liga announced the decision a day earlier, stating that the game will now take place at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Details: In the statement, Villarreal highlighted that the plan to hold a match outside Spain was initiated by La Liga, intended to boost the global presence of Spanish football. The club agreed to take part, viewing it as a chance to grow and enhance the league’s visibility.
Villarreal representatives mentioned that despite repeated reminders, La Liga did not offer sufficient organizational assistance. Key matters, such as match timing and travel logistics for fans, remained unresolved. Just before their Champions League match against Manchester City, the club received a phone call informing them of the cancellation. Shortly after, La Liga released an official statement without discussing it with Villarreal, which the club termed as “a complete lack of respect and empathy.”
Villarreal expressed disappointment that La Liga could not successfully carry out a project that could have been a significant milestone for Spanish football’s international growth. However, the club reiterated its commitment to its values, focusing on the advancement of both the team and the league.
Reminder: A Manchester City fan passed away prior to the Champions League match against Villarreal.