European Games Gone International?

            With the game of soccer gaining popularity tremendously in the states over the last few years, there has been talk of having some of the European leagues hold matches in the US. Whichever way the games and schedules are formatted for this endeavor, there are still plenty of concerns for fans on either side of the Atlantic.

            To start, the fairness of the competition seems to be jeopardized when games are played in different countries. If one round was played overseas, the number of away vs. home games would be changed, and the venue of a soccer game is known to hold power over the result. On the other hand, if one game was added for each team, teams would play each other at different amounts than other teams would play them. For example, one team would play an easier team for the added game while another team would play a difficult team, hurting some teams’ chances for the title. Some serious thought would have to be put in to make it fair, and even two overseas rounds may have to be added.

            Another concern with matches taking place away from their home country is the fan support. Many, me included, would argue that a club is a part of their community, and those in that community should have the right to go to their games. Moving games, especially important ones, away from the home fans would be upsetting and would take away from those wanting to watch their community team play. Also, imposing a completely different league on the countries that these foreign matches would take place in could prove harmful. In the US, for example, the MLS has been growing rapidly through the years, and needs to continue to build up fan support, and it definitely needs fans to attend matches played. When fans pay to watch soccer games, the club has more money to spend on new players, and ultimately the league grows in its player diversity and performance. If European games were played in the US, most people would go to their game over a local MLS one, drawing support and money away from MLS teams, which it is in great need of. Overall, I think that, at least with the current state of American soccer, European games should not be played in the US. Preseason games or friendlies would be welcome, but league games should stick to their home countries.