Tensions escalate over Villarreal-Barcelona match in Miami following meeting fiasco | Barca Universal

"Tensions are rising ahead of Barcelona's La Liga clash against Villarreal due to plans to host the match in Miami, United States. According to SPORT, the situation has escalated after a scheduled meeting between the captains, La Liga, Villarreal, and Barcelona failed to take place. The meeting, originally set up to discuss players' concerns and the sporting and logistical implications of the match abroad, saw none of the parties show up."

"The absence of representatives from the clubs and the employers' association has been interpreted as a snub to the captains, who were seeking clarity. The outlet reports that La Liga and the clubs proposed alternative dates for the meeting - October 21 or 22 - but these dates clash with competitive schedules and come after tickets for the event are already set to go on sale."

"Players had already expressed frustration over the lack of transparency surrounding the Miami match. In August, captains made it clear they were unhappy with the process, which was led by an external company and later passed to UEFA and FIFA via the RFEF, without consulting players first. While Barcelona and Villarreal had initially shown willingness to meet the captains, nothing as such has happened. Now what? Despite the no-show from the clubs and LaLiga, the players' representatives went ahead with the meeting."

A scheduled meeting between captains, LaLiga, Villarreal, and Barcelona failed to take place, with no parties attending. The meeting had been arranged to address players' concerns and the sporting and logistical implications of staging the Barcelona–Villarreal match in Miami. Clubs and LaLiga proposed alternative dates that clash with competitive schedules and come after tickets will go on sale. Captains expressed frustration over a lack of transparency after the process was led by an external company and routed through UEFA and FIFA via the RFEF without player consultation. The players' union proceeded with the meeting and is preparing a strong statement demanding respect and consultation. Tensions could escalate if clubs and governing bodies continue to delay meaningful engagement.

Read at Barca Universal