Champions League. UEFA is pushing for Girona to play Barcelona next season

La Liga sensation this year, Girona validated their ticket to the next Champions League by ousting Barcelona in the Catalan derby last week (4-2). If this victory over the rival offered a historic qualification to the city of a thousand seats, its stadium, Montilivi, should not be able to host European matches. In accordance Mundo DeportivoUEFA would pressure Girona to settle in Barcelona to play their Champions League matches. Furthermore, the Montilivi stadium, which has a capacity of 14,000 people, will be reduced to 9,000 since the temporary stands are not authorized by the European body. Two choices are then offered to the club: play in Montilivi reduced to 9,000 people or emigrate to Barcelona.

Girona fans against move to Barcelona

If FC Barcelona returns to the Nou Camp next season, the Montjuïc stadium, where PSG qualified for the C1 semi-final against Barça, will be available. For UEFA, a temporary relocation of the Catalan club would be easier from a logistical point of view (reception of visiting clubs, TV broadcasting, advertising, security, etc.).

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But, inevitably, this idea is far from pleasing the club located a hundred kilometers north of Barcelona. According to a survey conducted by Diary of Girona 81% of supporters Blanquivermells prefer to play in a reduced Montilivi than in one of the two Barcelona stadiums. Despite calls from UEFA, current runners-up Real Madrid are still undecided.