Karim Benzema: “We Need Barça to Stay in La Liga” Amid Catalan Independence Talks
The potential departure of FC Barcelona from La Liga, sparked by Catalonia’s push for independence, has sent shockwaves through Spanish football. The uncertainty has reached even Real Madrid, with striker Karim Benzema voicing his concern over the possibility of losing El Clásico from the league calendar.
“We need Barça to stay in the league,” Benzema said. “That’s what football is all about: two big teams like Madrid and Barcelona playing against each other. If they were to leave La Liga, it would be a big problem. So I hope things stay as they are.”
The tension follows remarks from the Spanish Football League’s president, who warned that Catalan clubs—including Barcelona—may not be allowed to compete in the Spanish top flight if Catalonia were to become independent. While legal frameworks could eventually evolve, the prospect remains deeply unsettling for fans and players alike.
Benzema’s statement reflects a shared sentiment: without Barça, La Liga would lose a major part of its identity, prestige, and global appeal. With a referendum on Catalonia’s independence looming, the future of Spanish football could be on the verge of a dramatic shift.
