Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon has kept it real when discussing the Finalissima in Saudi Arabia.
The iconic fixture between the Copa America and European Championships is back again in 2026, where Simon’s Spain will face Argentina.
However, it won’t be in South America or Europe, but Saudi, somewhere Simon had to play with Athletic Bilbao during the Spanish Supercoppa.
“I don’t know the reason, but I imagine it’s financial,” he said of the call.
“The last Finalissima was played at Wembley and it was great, but now they’re taking it to Qatar… I think the logical thing would be to play it either in Europe or America.
“I’m a firm believer that the fans come first. That’s what guides my principles, which are those of Athletic Bilbao, where I grew up.
“I put myself in the shoes of an Athletic Bilbao supporter, and taking the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia where two thousand people will go instead of forty or fifty thousand… well, I just don’t see it.
“And besides, those who go there and see what it’s like don’t want to go back. For example, my family members, who have already been, have seen what it’s like there and they’re not going back.
“As for taking it to Miami, if I were Athletic Bilbao, this would leave fifty thousand members without a match, without enjoying it… The best thing is playing at home, with your people.
“Well, it’s the same with everything, including the Finalissima in Qatar. But, well, there are other interests involved.”
Leave a Reply