The Athletic FC Podcast La Liga set for U.S. match - is the Premier League next?
12 snips
Aug 19, 2025 
Adam Crafton and Matt Slater, football reporters from The Athletic, dive into the exciting potential of La Liga matches hitting U.S. soil, with a focus on a historic clash between Villarreal and Barcelona in Miami. They discuss the hurdles faced and approvals required for this groundbreaking event. The duo also explores the broader implications for La Liga and its competition with Major League Soccer, alongside the financial intricacies involved. Plus, they touch on the controversial idea of a Premier League '39th game,' stirring up debates on globalization in sports.
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FIFA's Weak Hand After Settlement
- FIFA's working group sits between conflicting stakeholders and faces legal pressure from Relevant.
- That weakness may limit FIFA's ability to block future foreign domestic matches.
Who Is Relevant And Why They Matter
- Relevant is led by Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, and has grown into a major sports promoter.
- The company now brokers deals between European competitions and North American markets using stadium access and relationships.
Mixed Reaction In Spain
- Spanish clubs and player groups have voiced concern about integrity and lack of consultation.
- Opposition is fragmented: Real Madrid publicly resists while many clubs quietly accept the commercial logic.