Alexander Ceferin, president of the European Football Association, reaffirmed his firm stance against the European Super League project, while strongly rejecting the idea of holding the Barcelona vs Villarreal match in Miami, stating that football must remain within the European continent.

Ceferin said that UEFA is dissatisfied with the idea of moving the match to the United States, and although there are limited legal loopholes that might allow it if approved by FIFA, he emphasized that the matter requires in-depth future discussions. He explained that football should stay in Europe, where fans cannot travel long distances like to Australia or America to watch their teams.

The UEFA president confirmed he will start direct talks with FIFA and continental federations to discuss this issue, clarifying that exceptions may be accepted if there is a valid reason, but the basic rule is that European matches should be played within the continent.

Ceferin categorically denied any negotiations between UEFA and representatives of the European Super League, stating that he has already met officials from Real Madrid and Barcelona, but made it clear: “I have been clear from the start, the system or the format of the new Champions League will not change.” He added that Real Madrid and Barcelona will always be welcome within the European football family.

Ceferin described the European Super League project as an imminent threat to the world’s most popular sport, affirming that stopping it was one of the most prominent signs of European unity in recent years. He concluded his statements by saying: “That elitist competition will destroy the football we love, so the talk about it must stop completely.”