Ghana forward Inaki Williams has launched a scathing critique of the decision to stage the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, arguing that the move alienates fans and places unnecessary strain on players.
The Spanish Super Cup has been hosted in the Middle Eastern country since the 2019/20 season after the Spanish Football Federation struck a long-term agreement that will keep the competition there until 2029. The revamped format features a four-team mini-tournament involving the La Liga champions and runners-up, alongside the Copa del Rey winners and finalists.
Speaking to the press ahead of Atletico Madrid’s clash with Real Madrid next week, Williams made his feelings clear about the relocation of the competition.
“For me, playing (the tournament) in Saudi Arabia is sad,” he said.
The Athletic Bilbao forward stressed that exporting a domestic competition comes at a cost, particularly for supporters who form the soul of Spanish football.
“Taking a national competition out to another country does not make things easy for (the fans) to move and follow the games,” he added.
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Beyond the fan experience, Williams revealed that the timing of the tournament has personal implications for him. The Ghana international is expecting his first child with his wife, Patricia Morales, in the coming days, and the long-distance travel only complicates matters.
“When we play there, it feels like we are the away team. Above that, in the upcoming days, I am going to be a dad, and it is a big hassle to go away with my wife and son here,” he continued.
Williams lamented what he sees as a missed opportunity to celebrate Spanish football in front of its natural audience, insisting the spectacle loses its magic when taken so far from home.
“It’s a shame that such a beautiful match was played so far away because I think that if it had been played closer, the stadium would have been filled with many of our fans,” he concluded.
His comments add to the growing debate around the commercialization of football competitions and the balance between financial gain and preserving the traditions and accessibility of the game.
