Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has taken a strong stance against the Spanish LaLiga’s controversial plan to stage a competitive league match in Miami, lending significant weight to the growing protest over the decision. Speaking at a recent press conference, Alonso made his position clear, stating his belief that moving the league game to the United States “distorts the competition.”
“My opinion is the same as it was two months ago. We are against the match because we believe it corrupts the competition,” Alonso asserted. His central argument focuses on the lack of competitive balance and the unilateral nature of the decision, which was made without the unanimous consent of all participating clubs.
A Unilateral Decision
The debate centers around the scheduled fixture between Villarreal and Barcelona, which LaLiga plans to host overseas in a move designed to boost the league’s global brand and revenue. However, for Alonso and many others across the league, the business opportunity does not outweigh the principles of sporting fairness.
Alonso was critical of the way the decision was reached: “There hasn’t been unanimity or consultation for it to be played on neutral ground. We are against this decision being made unilaterally.”
Backing the Players’ Protest
Alonso confirmed that Real Madrid supports the wave of protests initiated by players and other clubs, who have been staging symbolic demonstrations—such as standing still for the first few seconds of a match—to voice their disapproval.
“The protests are positive because they show how many clubs feel,” the coach said, emphasizing that the widespread dissent should be a clear signal that the league’s direction is compromised.
While the league pushes ahead with its globalization strategy, Alonso’s comments underscore a deep division over prioritizing commercial expansion at the expense of established sporting rules and the wishes of the clubs themselves. The former midfielder’s firm words ensure that the battle for the integrity of the Spanish domestic competition remains a headline issue.
