Moving one of the Spanish league matches overseas has stirred both fans and players. For the first time, UEFA made an exception and allowed the “Barcelona” — “Villarreal” game to be played in Miami on December 20. However, there is no guarantee the match will actually take place. The head of the Spanish players’ union, David Aganzo, says so plainly: for him, players’ health and rights come before flashy billboards and a new market.
Miami in Doubt: Where Is the Line of What's Acceptable?
— David, can you confirm that the “Barcelona” — “Villarreal” match in the United States will definitely be played?
— No, I cannot give such a guarantee. We are open to developing the product and understand the league’s interest in international markets, but before "moving" an official match across the ocean, dozens of details must be settled—from logistics and insurance coverage to medical protocols and the real impact of the flight on preparation.
— What raises the biggest concerns?
— Time needed for the flight and acclimatization, recovery after a long journey, and a congested La Liga and cup schedule. Players should not pay with their health for marketing experiments.
The Right to Strike: A Tool, Not a Goal
— Do you consider a strike possible?
— Every worker has the right to strike, and footballers are no exception. I am not saying we will announce a protest tomorrow, but we see gaps in the protection of players’ interests by the institutions that are supposed to do this. If dialogue does not deliver, the union must consider the full range of legal measures.
— So a strike is a real option?
— It is a last resort. We proceed step by step: consultations, requests for documents, risk assessment. But no one should ignore the players’ position.
UEFA, the League and Federations: Don't Accuse, Listen
— Are you directly criticizing UEFA?
— Our task is not to find culprits, but to obtain clear guarantees. UEFA made an exception — that is fine. Now all stakeholders must synchronize: the league, the clubs, local organizers, and the medical staffs. Without transparency and specifics, the decision to take the match abroad looks hasty.
— What do you expect from La Liga?
— A concrete plan: flight schedules, training windows, medical clearances, compensation and insurance mechanisms, as well as confirmed security inside and outside the stadium.
Schedule and Health: The Sporting Principle at Stake
— Why emphasize the schedule?
— Because the sporting principle is not a slogan. A long flight, time-zone changes, and a short turnaround before the next round — all of this affects injury risk and the quality of football. A professional season is a complex puzzle of microcycles, and any intervention must be evidence-based.
— Is there an acceptable format?
— Yes: early agreement, sufficient time for acclimatization, transparent medical protocols, and firm guarantees from the organizers. Then we can talk about compromises.
What Must Happen for the Match to Be Played
— What minimum conditions would let you say "yes"?
— A package of documents confirming medical, logistical, and insurance provisions; official letters guaranteeing security; a clear timetable that does not worsen players’ working conditions; and a rapid-response mechanism for force majeure. When all this is on the table, we can discuss the details.
— Is there a deadline for a decision?
— The sooner, the better. We have already sent requests and are waiting for a substantive response. I repeat: we support football’s development, but not at the expense of the health of the people who make this game.
Bottom Line
— Your main message to all parties?
— Players are not disposable. We are not blocking ideas; we ask for respect for footballers’ work and health. If the institutions do their part, the project has a chance. If not, the union will use the instruments provided by law.
