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FC Barcelona are set to play their first-ever La Liga match outside of Spain, with their clash against Villarreal being moved to Miami — a decision that sparked a strong reaction from captain Frenkie de Jong. After the midfielder publicly voiced his disagreement with the league’s plan, club president Joan Laporta made his stance clear.
On Wednesday, October 8, La Liga president Javier Tebas confirmed that the Matchday 17 fixture of the 2025–26 season between Barcelona and Villarreal will be held in Miami. The game, scheduled for December 20, has already stirred controversy, particularly among players and clubs directly affected by the move.
Currently on international duty with the Netherlands, De Jong was asked Thursday about the new initiative, and he didn’t hold back: “I don’t like it. I can understand the clubs financially, they will of course profit from it, and they can spread their brand further across the world. But I wouldn’t do it.“
The Dutch midfielder also explained how the venue change impacts not only the players but also the integrity of the competition. “It’s not good for the players. You have to travel a lot. It’s also not fair in terms of competition. For us, it’s now an away match on neutral ground. I totally understand if other clubs aren’t happy about that,” he concluded.
With his contract at Barça set to expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, De Jong also addressed his renewal talks with the club: “As I always say, I’m going to renew my contract with Barcelona. We’re very close. When there’s real news, you’ll find out, but for now I can’t say anything.”
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De Jong has been a key figure in Barcelona’s midfield alongside Pedri, and after joining the club in 2019, he now holds the captain’s armband. With the RFEF (Spanish FA), La Liga, and UEFA already approving the change of venue, only CONCACAF’s approval remains, as the confederation will host the match.
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