"The committee acknowledged [overseas fixtures] as an important and growing issue but expressed the desire to ensure that it has the views of all stakeholders before coming to a final decision. There are many issues to resolve and as the European governing body, Uefa has a responsibility to take all such factors into account. As a result, no decision was taken today but Uefa will undertake a round of consultation with all stakeholders in European football including fans."
"The specific mention for fans to be involved in this engagement demonstrates that Uefa has recognised the strong opposition expressed by millions of supporters across the continent, as well as those of the many other stakeholders who have spoken out against these plans Our position remains unchanged: European football belongs to our stadiums, our cities, our communities one domestic match abroad is one too many."
Uefa postponed a decision on whether to permit domestic league matches to be played abroad and announced a consultation with all stakeholders, including fans. The delay creates uncertainty over proposals to stage Villarreal v Barcelona in the US and Milan v Como in Australia this season. The executive committee emphasised that many issues must be resolved and that Uefa has a responsibility to consider all factors before a final decision. Consultation is expected to begin soon, possibly leaving the door open for the proposed matches to proceed abroad. Leading supporters' groups remain united in opposition, arguing that moving games overseas would undermine sporting integrity and detach clubs from communities.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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