2 min read
Football Insider

We are willing to be bold - La Liga U.S. chief backs controversial Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami for success, despite criticism

Nicolas Garcia Hemme, La Liga's head of strategy in North America, backed the Spanish top flight's controversial Miami-based fixture for success, despite criticism over its scheduling. The executive admitted that the December game could ruffle some feathers, but claimed that it is a crucial way for Spanish football to differentiate itself in the U.S.

We are willing to be bold - La Liga U.S. chief backs controversial Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami for success, despite criticism

Nicolas Garcia Hemme, La Liga's head of strategy in North America, backed the Spanish top flight's controversial Miami-based fixture for success, despite criticism over its scheduling. The executive admitted that the December game could ruffle some feathers, but claimed that it is a crucial way for Spanish football to differentiate itself in the U.S.

1

The Bold Move by La Liga

La Liga's decision to host the Barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami has sparked controversy and garnered criticism from various quarters. However, Nicolas Garcia Hemme, the head of strategy for La Liga in North America, stands behind this bold move, emphasizing the importance of establishing a strong presence in the U.S. market.

2

Differentiation in a Competitive Market

With the popularity of soccer in the United States on the rise, La Liga sees this Miami-based fixture as a key opportunity to set itself apart from other European leagues. By bringing a high-profile match to American soil, La Liga aims to attract new fans and strengthen its position in the competitive sports landscape.

3

Navigating Criticism and Challenges

While Garcia Hemme acknowledges that the scheduling of the Barcelona-Villarreal game may face backlash, he remains optimistic about its potential for success. The executive understands the importance of taking risks and pushing boundaries to expand the reach of Spanish football beyond its traditional boundaries.

4

Creating Buzz and Engagement

By organizing such a high-profile match in Miami, La Liga hopes to generate buzz and excitement among soccer fans in the U.S. The league aims to foster greater engagement with American audiences, showcasing the talent and passion of Spanish football in a new and dynamic way.

5

Looking Ahead

As La Liga prepares for the Barcelona-Villarreal showdown in Miami, all eyes will be on how the event unfolds and the impact it has on the league's outreach efforts in the U.S. While criticism persists, the willingness to be bold and innovative could prove to be a game-changer for Spanish football on American soil.

Published on October 14, 2025