Thomas Partey Could Face Barcelona in Landmark La Liga Match in the USA
- Spanish football may soon witness a groundbreaking moment, with plans in motion for Barcelona to face Villarreal in the US
- A final decision from European football’s governing body will determine whether the bold proposal becomes reality
- Thomas Partey is gearing up for a much-anticipated debut that could mark the start of a significant new chapter in his career
Ghana international Thomas Partey could line up for Villarreal against Barcelona in what could become a historic Spanish La Liga fixture staged outside Spain.
La Liga is pushing to host the Villarreal vs Barcelona clash in Miami, marking a potential first for Spanish top-flight football.
Source: Getty Images
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Board of Directors of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has approved a proposal to forward the request to UEFA for the match to be played on December 20 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, USA.
Both clubs have agreed to move the game from Villarreal’s Estadio de la Cerámica to the American venue.
The RFEF board’s approval is a major milestone for Spanish football, with the majority of members supporting the idea.
If confirmed, it would be the first official La Liga match to be played on U.S. soil. Reports suggest Barcelona could earn around €4 million in base compensation for agreeing to the relocation.
UEFA decision pending
For the move to go ahead, UEFA must give the green light, as required under FIFA’s Regulations on International Matches and the rules set by the RFEF.
UEFA’s decision is expected before November 30, 21 days before the scheduled match date.
Once approved, the request would also be sent to CONCACAF and the United States Soccer Federation, with FIFA kept informed throughout the process.
FIFA’s direct authorisation is not necessary as long as the proper steps are followed.
The match was originally scheduled to be played at Villarreal’s home ground as part of the 2025/26 La Liga season.
Should the venue change be confirmed, it will represent a groundbreaking moment for the league.
When will Partey make his Villarreal debut?
Partey is expected to make his official Villarreal debut when the Yellow Submarine host newly promoted Real Oviedo.
The Ghanaian midfielder recently featured in a pre-season friendly, where Villarreal fell 2-0 to Aston Villa at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
The former Arsenal star, who signed a two-year contract after leaving the Premier League side at the end of his deal in June, is no stranger to Spanish football, having enjoyed a successful spell with Atletico Madrid before moving to England.
Villarreal will be counting on his experience to play a key role in their 2025/26 campaign.
Partey experiences mixed reception from fans
In a related report, YEN.com.gh highlighted that Partey experienced a mixed reception from Villarreal supporters on his debut.
The split in opinion among fans in Castellón stems from the multiple sexual offence charges he faces in the UK.
Each time he touched the ball, the stadium’s response was divided: some applauded in support, while others jeered, their whistles piercing through the night.
Source: YEN.com.gh
