Rabiot, Serie A, and the controversy over overseas league matches

Introduction to the Serie A overseas matches debate

Adrien Rabiot, the French midfielder recently signed by AC Milan, has sparked controversy by openly criticising the Serie A’s plans to stage league matches overseas. His comments have ignited a broader discussion about the future of football competitions and the impact of playing domestic games abroad on players, clubs, and fans. This article delves into the key points of this debate, UEFA’s response, and what it means for European football.

Adrien Rabiot’s criticism of overseas league matches

In early October 2025, Rabiot described plans for Serie A matches abroad as “completely crazy” and “really absurd” in an interview with Le Figaro. He expressed concerns about the toll of long-distance travel on players’ health and questioned the logic of playing an Italian league match in Australia, highlighting the upcoming fixture between AC Milan and Como in Perth scheduled for February. Rabiot’s stance reflects a growing unease among players regarding the commercialisation of football and its impact on their wellbeing.

Despite his concerns, Serie A’s chief executive Luigi de Siervo reminded Rabiot that players are paid professionals who must respect their employers’ decisions. De Siervo emphasised that clubs like AC Milan have agreed to these overseas fixtures to expand their global reach, and players are expected to comply with such arrangements.

UEFA’s reluctant approval and opposition

UEFA confirmed it had “reluctantly” approved two European league matches to be played abroad – including the La Liga fixture between Villarreal and Barcelona in Miami. However, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin was vocal in his opposition, warning that moving league matches overseas risks “breaking” football.

Ceferin stressed football’s role beyond entertainment and finances, highlighting its cultural and community significance. He warned that detaching matches from their traditional local contexts could alienate fans and damage the sport’s roots. His message resonated during the European Football Clubs’ assembly in Rome, where club officials discussed the future of the game amid political and social challenges in Europe.

UEFA’s consultation findings and FIFA’s regulatory gap

UEFA’s consultation with stakeholders revealed widespread resistance to overseas league matches from fans, clubs, players, and European institutions. Despite this, UEFA was unable to block these fixtures due to FIFA’s regulatory framework being insufficiently detailed to prevent domestic matches from moving abroad.

In response, FIFA has formed a working group to assess the long-term impact of playing competitive domestic games overseas, indicating ongoing discussions but no immediate solutions.

The European Super League controversy and UEFA’s stance

Further adding to the debate is UEFA’s firm rejection of any exclusive European Super League. This controversial proposal by twelve elite clubs, including England’s top six Premier League teams and major Italian and Spanish clubs, aimed to create an exclusive competition outside UEFA’s control.

Although the original Super League plans collapsed in 2021 following widespread backlash, revamped proposals have emerged after legal rulings challenged UEFA’s authority to ban breakaway leagues. Ceferin reiterated UEFA’s commitment to inclusivity and balance, stating that football’s lasting value depends on unity rather than exclusivity.

This position underscores UEFA’s dedication to maintaining competitive integrity and ensuring that all clubs, regardless of size, have a chance to compete in Europe’s premier competitions.

Impact on players, clubs, and fans

The move to stage league matches overseas presents varied implications. Players like Rabiot highlight concerns about travel fatigue, disrupted routines, and potential injury risks. Clubs seek to grow their fanbases internationally and increase commercial revenues by tapping into new markets.

However, fans, especially local supporters, often feel alienated when traditional home matches move abroad. The atmosphere, matchday experience, and cultural connection can be diluted, raising questions about the true cost of global expansion.

Case study: Serie A match in Perth

The scheduled AC Milan versus Como match in Perth serves as a prime example. While the event will showcase Serie A to Australian audiences and generate international exposure, local Italian fans will miss a home game experience. Players will endure extensive travel and time zone changes, potentially affecting performance.

This scenario highlights the balancing act football authorities must perform between commercial growth and preserving the sport’s essence.

Comparisons with other leagues and future trends

Other leagues, such as the English Premier League, have long resisted playing matches overseas, valuing tradition and fan engagement. However, La Liga’s Miami fixture indicates a shift towards globalising domestic competitions.

Looking forward, football’s governing bodies face mounting pressure to adapt to commercial realities while safeguarding players’ health and fans’ loyalty. The establishment of regulatory frameworks by FIFA and UEFA’s emphasis on inclusivity suggest ongoing negotiations to find sustainable solutions.

For more insights into how major clubs manage competitive pressures and fan expectations, see our detailed Manchester United tables explained current standings and insights article.

Conclusion: Preserving football’s soul amid global expansion

The controversy surrounding Adrien Rabiot’s comments and the Serie A’s overseas matches reflects broader tensions between commercial ambitions and football’s traditional values. While clubs and leagues seek new markets, it is vital to respect player welfare and the cultural ties that make football special.

UEFA’s cautious approach and ongoing dialogue with FIFA indicate a commitment to finding balanced paths forward. Fans and players alike will be crucial voices in shaping football’s future as it navigates these complex changes.

For a comprehensive guide on upcoming fixtures and how clubs are handling these challenges, check out our football scores and fixtures guide for September 2025.