Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has claimed that a move to the Premier League for Barcelona would make no sense, and would also cause conflict for England politically.
The Camp Nou club are believed to toying with the idea of joining England’s coveted competition, should they be dispelled from the Spanish La Liga amidst the Catalonia independence talks.
The Catalan government have been pushing for independence, and held a supposed ‘illegal’ vote in which 90% of Catalan citizens voted in favour, although both the EU and the Spanish government are claiming the vote is not valid.
This is causing political friction across Europe, and there is talk that the teams from inside Catalonia could be removed from the national league, leaving Espanyol, Barcelona and Girona in limbo.
Arsenal Wenger has now given his view on Barca joining England’s elite division, when asked if he wanted to see them join the English league.
“No, As soon as you disturb the geographical unity or common sense, I believe it would not be normal,” Wenger replied.
“Because why not invite Celtic or Rangers to the Premier League, who are part of Great Britain, it makes more sense than to invite Barcelona?
“On a second level as well, if it doesn’t go well politically between Catalonia and Spain, it would mean a stand of support for Catalonia from England which certainly would not be welcome internationally politically.
“I don’t believe it is a scenario you can envisage in a realistic way.
“And I hope as well that it will not go as far and Barcelona can continue to play in Spain.”
Would the Premier League allow Barcelona to join regardless of the political implications? Would you want the giants included in our division?
Pat J