La Liga president Javier Tebas last week announced that he would stage one league game in the U.S as part of the 15-year agreement they signed with the sports and entertainment company, Relevent.
Relevent that operates the International Champions Cup, admitted in order to promote the sport in North America and expand their brand.
However, La Liga players from 20 teams were met on Wednesday at the headquarters of Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) to say their discontent.
Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets Atletico’s Koke, Real Betis’ Joaquin Sanchez and Valencia Jose Luis Gaya were among the highlights. And all are against the decision.
Speaking to media at a press conference, AFE president David Aganzo, said they need to sort the decision out with La Liga players.
“The players are outraged very surprised, and are all against it. It’s unanimous. They don’t want to play outside Spain.” Aganzo said.
“Things have to be done in a more coherent way and with common sense. A decision of this magnitude, that affects players, referees and fans, was taken unilaterally and is a lack of respect.
“I have information that there are certain clubs that are in favour and others against this, but I represent the players. We need to sort this out with the union, and we will tell them all of our problems.
“If, from then on and after a few days, they don’t answer, then we will have to solve the situation. We are going to try to see that it doesn’t reach that extreme of a strike. But we are willing to go right to the last option if it is necessary.” Aganzo added.
Relevent Sports launches International Champions Cup 2018. (Source:www.sport.detik.com)
Aganzo has planned to talk with La Liga president Javier Tebas in September to trace the complaints of players and does not exclude a strike if the agreement is maintained.
“I invite Javier Tebas to play football so he can see it from another angle. This agreement that La Liga has reached without consulting anyone shows a lack of respect. It’s not just the game as such, in terms of health and travel, it just makes no sense to have a game played in the U.S and have one team have to give up a home game.” Aganzo said.
“It cannot be that a person takes a decision of a 15-year agreement, which affects many people and without consulting. We are fed up with not being valued.” the Spaniard added.
