- Catalunya is attempting to become independent and break free of Spain
- Barcelona would therefore have right to choose which league to compete in
- Sport minister for region Gerard Figueras said: ‘Catalan teams in La Liga will have to decide where they want to play’
The thought of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta turning out for Barcelona in the Premier League seems like a distant fantasy.
But remarkably, Catalunya’s bid for independence could open a world of possibilities for the famous club.
And according to the region’s sport minister, the Catalan teams would have the right to choose where they compete if independence from Spain becomes a reality.
The thought of seeing Lionel Messi play for Barcelona in the Premier League will excite fans
‘In the case of independence, Catalan teams in La Liga – Barcelona, Espanyol and Girona – will have to decide where they want to play: in the Spanish league or a neighbouring country like Italy, France or the Premier League,’ said Gerard Figueras.
‘Now in Spain there teams from other countries who play in national leagues: clubs from Andorra in football and basketball.
‘Monaco play in France, in England Welsh clubs. I don’t think that UEFA has anything against seeing another club play in a different league from their country.’
Barcelona would have the ability to choose where they compete, says the sport minister
The club itself is yet to publicly address any potential ramifications of independence as unrest has been growing.
Spain’s prime minister Mariano declared the vote as ‘illegal’ and had ballot boxes seized so there does not appear to be a swift resolution in sight.
With political tensions running so high, the iconic football club could find itself at the centre of a tug-of-war.
For now Ernesto Valverde’s side are flying high in La Liga but the notion that the famous old club might strut their stuff against the Premier League’s elite, suddenly isn’t so far-fetched.
Barcelona are currently flying high in both La Liga and the Champions League
