UEFA President Criticizes Overseas Game Plans

Ceferin Expresses Strong Opposition

Aleksander Ceferin, the president of UEFA, has voiced his disapproval regarding proposals to host European matches outside of their traditional venues, a topic that has sparked mixed reactions. On Monday, UEFA issued an official statement emphasizing its discontent with the idea, indicating that it does not support domestic league games being played abroad.

Upcoming Matches Stir Debate

The planned fixtures include matches such as Villarreal and Barcelona scheduled to take place in Miami this December, and AC Milan set to face Como in Perth, Australia, in February. These events have ignited a divided response among fans regarding the suitability of holding games far from home.

Ceferin’s Firm Stand

Following the recent announcement, Ceferin reasserted UEFA’s stance against overseas games on Wednesday. His comments reflect the strong feelings held by some UEFA members regarding the proposal.

“Football transcends mere financial metrics. It’s not just entertainment; it represents life within our communities, our streets, our clubs, and the devoted fans who cultivate it,” Ceferin remarked during the European Football Clubs’ general assembly held in Rome.

“If we detach the sport too much from its origins, we risk its very foundation,” he cautioned.

“In challenging times, football remains our source of stability and a shared joy. It’s a consistent presence, both in adversity and prosperity,” he continued. “As Europe grapples with significant political, economic, and societal issues, we need binding elements to unite us. Football possesses that unifying strength, and it’s crucial that we safeguard it.”

“I have faith in its growth and ability to inspire. This will happen because of our collective resilience,” he concluded.

According to reports from The Guardian, the Premier League has stated that it will not emulate La Liga and Serie A’s requests to move domestic matches abroad. Nonetheless, as football continues to expand beyond its traditional borders, it’s anticipated that this position may shift in the coming years.