The European Football Association (UEFA) announced its approval for the match between Villarreal and Barcelona in Miami, United States, scheduled for December 21 as part of the 17th round of the Spanish League, in a move that is the first of its kind in years.

Despite this approval, UEFA reiterated its initial opposition to moving domestic league matches outside their home countries, emphasizing that the idea does not enjoy broad support from fans, clubs, players, and European institutions, which believe that this step weakens the relationship between teams and their local fans.

The association clarified that the decision was made exceptionally and temporarily due to the "lack of clarity" regarding the regulatory framework adopted by FIFA – which is currently under review – after receiving two official requests from the Spanish and Italian football associations regarding holding domestic matches outside the continent.

UEFA confirmed in its statement that it will actively participate in the ongoing discussions under FIFA's supervision to establish future rules that maintain the integrity of domestic competitions and ensure the continued close relationship between clubs and their fans and communities.

It is worth noting that the match between Milan and Como will be held in Australia, after UEFA's approval, pending the approval of the International Football Association (FIFA).