Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper, Unai Simon has reportedly condemned the Spanish federation’s decision to host the La Liga clash between Villarreal and Barcelona in the United States.
The game, which is set for December 20 at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, has already generated a lot of discussion among Spanish football fans.
Following the governing body’s approval of the game’s relocation overseas, Real Madrid were the first to express their opposition. They vowed “all kinds of measures to prevent the competition from being adulterated” in their stern official statement.
Even though his club is officially silent on the issue, one of Athletic’s most reputable personalities has already joined the criticism.
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What Did Simon Say About Hosting LaLiga Games Abroad?
According to Barca Universal, when asked for his opinion, Simon did not mince words. “It’s a lack of respect for the fans. It’s something that would seem wrong to me at Athletic and at any other club,” he said, making it clear that his loyalty lies with the supporters.
Simon clearly discussed the role of fans, emphasizing that they are just as much a part of football as the players.
“Football is not only part of the members and fans, but it is the people who have brought us to where we are. If it weren’t for them, football wouldn’t exist,” he stated.
Juan Roig, the president of Villarreal, has pledged to pay for supporters’ travelling costs if they wish to visit Miami, but Simon argues this isn’t what matters most.
“If it were Athletic’s turn to go to Miami, I don’t see it. Although in the end the club pays for the trip and the ticket, there are many fans who cannot make that trip.
“For them, it is a lost day, a day that they are left without seeing their players live,” he argued.
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