CorSera: Pressures and LaLiga’s precedent – why Milan-Como Australia game is in doubt

It seemed to be all done and dusted, but now the plan to play AC Milan’s game against Como in Australia is in serious doubt.

As Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews) report, UEFA ‘s approval seemed to have definitively resolved the issue regarding Milan-Como, but what happened in Spain with the cancellation of Villarreal vs. Barcelona in Miami could have repercussions.

Trip down under in doub

The paper speaks of ‘international intrigue’ regarding the fate of the Perth game. Approval from the Australian FA is expected today, followed by approval from FIFA and the AFC – the Asian Football Confederation.

According to the Guardian’s report yesterday, the AFC are facing ‘strong external pressure not to authorise the match’. Yesterday, Massimiliano Allegri and Cesc Fabregas also weighed in on the matter.

The Milan boss said: “If it’s played in Italy, even better; otherwise, we’ll organise ourselves to go to Australia and play an important match. In any case, a decision needs to be made soon; what matters are the three points.”

His opposite number said: “The match in Australia hasn’t been confirmed yet. It’s possible it won’t take place. My opinion is personal: the fans are the most important element. There are people who make sacrifices and use their salaries to support us.”

Contrasting positions

While Allegri and Fabregas (even some players, like Rabiot and Maignan) have expressed their opposition, the management of Milan and Como have a different idea, so much so that they were the first to endorse the initiative to promote the brand and expand visibility in a new market.

Furthermore, there would be significant revenue flowing into the coffers of the two clubs: the Australian federation, in order to host a Serie A match, has in fact committed to paying €12m to the Lega Cacio.

It is broken down as follows: €4m for organisational costs, €5m to Milan, and the remainder to be split between Como and the other clubs in the league. So, where will Milan-Como be played in February? For now, there’s no certainty, but a decision needs to be made quickly.