Article by Alexandru Stanciu – published Wednesday, October 08, 2025, 23:15 / Updated Wednesday, 08 October 2025 23:15
Javier Tebas, the head of Liga, announced that the match between Villarreal and Barcelona in this season will be played in the United States. Frenkie de Jong, the midfielder of the Catalans, said he did not agree with this decision, which he claims will affect the players.
It is an idea of Barcelona and Leliga that has aroused numerous criticisms. Although it has been rumored for some time, UEFA has long resisted, claiming that this cannot happen. Now, however, they have given up, and the match on December 21 will no longer play in Villarreal, but in Miami.
Frenkie de Jong does not agree that Villarreal – Barcelona to play in America: “It's weird”
Frenkie de Jong was asked about this topic at the press conference of the Nation of the Netherlands and had a clear opinion.
“I don't like it. I can understand the clubs, they will win this financially and this will be about it. But I would not.
“It's not good for players. We are already complaining about the program and all the trips, and that will grow even more. Besides, I think it's not right for the competition.
For us it is a traveling match that will now be played on neutral field. It is, of course, weird that a match in the Spanish championship will play in America, ”added Frenkie de Jong.
Ronald Koeman: “It doesn't make sense”
Even Koeman, former player and coach of Barcelona, the current coach of the Netherlands, also commented on the subject.
“I think Frenchie offers a good explanation. It doesn't make sense. Moving to Villarreal is a difficult match for Barcelona and now you play it on neutral field, where, in the end, there will be more supporters of Barcelona than of Villarreal in the stands.”.
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