UEFA FACES BACKLASH OVER OVERSEAS LEAGUE MATCHES – Fans Europe slams UEFA decision
UEFA is facing backlash after approving two major European league matches to be played abroad — a move that fan groups say undermines local football culture.
The supporters’ body Fans Europe has condemned the decision, insisting that football “belongs in the community.” Its Head of Policy, Martin Endemann, warned that UEFA’s ruling could spark an “arms race” among clubs and leagues seeking to expand globally.
The European governing body confirmed it had reluctantly approved two fixtures: Barcelona vs Villarreal in Miami this December, and AC Milan vs Como in Perth, Australia, early next year. Milan was forced to relocate due to San Siro’s preparations for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony in February.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin defended the ruling as an “exceptional case,” saying league games should be played on home soil, warning that anything else risks “disenfranchising loyal fans.”
He stressed the move should not be seen as setting a precedent, reaffirming UEFA’s commitment to keeping football “anchored in its home environment.”
