Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued a response to the strong statement laid out by Blaugrana star Frenkie de Jong on Wednesday.
Midfielder De Jong for his part grabbed the headlines across Spain yesterday evening.
This came upon the former Ajax man refusing to bite his tongue, in criticising the plans put in place for Barcelona’s upcoming La Liga meeting with Villarreal to be played in the USA.
“I don’t like us going there, and I don’t agree with it. It’s not fair for the competition. I don’t like it, and I don’t think it’s right for the players. For the clubs, it’s about expanding their brand globally. That’s probably what it’s all about. I understand the position, but I don’t accept it, and I don’t share it. The fixture list also plays a role. We always complain about the match schedule and the excessive travel,” De Jong explained.
During his own exchange with the media on Thursday, it therefore came as little surprise when the same comments were put to Barcelona chief Joan Laporta.
And the Spanish patron provided a diplomatic response, in assuring:
“He is the captain of Barça and I can respect his opinion, but the club will play where La Liga says. If the Villarreal-Barça match is to be played in Miami, then we will go to Miami.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
