The debate over taking Premier League matches abroad has been reignited after LaLiga president Javier Tebas suggested English football should follow the NFL's lead in staging competitive fixtures overseas.
Football's Global Expansion Debate
Tebas, never one to shy away from controversy, has thrown fresh fuel on the long-running discussion about whether domestic league matches should be played on foreign soil. His comments come as LaLiga prepares to stage its first competitive match in the United States next season.
"The Premier League should consider playing matches abroad," Tebas stated. "We're seeing the success of the NFL's international games - football needs to think bigger."
Premier League's Previous Attempts
The Premier League previously proposed a "39th game" concept in 2008, which would have seen an additional round of matches played internationally. The idea was met with fierce opposition from fans and ultimately abandoned.
- 2008: "Game 39" proposal scrapped after fan backlash
- 2014: Premier League trophy toured Asia to boost global appeal
- 2022: Pre-season tournaments in USA and Australia drew record crowds
Fan Reactions and Ethical Concerns
Traditionalists argue that moving competitive domestic matches abroad undermines the integrity of the league and disadvantages local supporters. Football Supporters' Association representatives have previously called such proposals "a betrayal of match-going fans."
However, clubs increasingly see international expansion as crucial for commercial growth, particularly in lucrative markets like North America and Asia where Premier League viewership continues to soar.
