‘Seville derby cannot be moved abroad’

Sevilla Director of Football Joaquin Caparros believes the Seville derby between his club and Real Betis “cannot be allowed to move to the US.”

Girona’s clash with Barcelona in late January is said to be the first La Liga game to be played abroad while a series of others are set to follow.

“Sevilla against Betis cannot be allowed to move to the US,” Caparros is cited as saying by Diario AS.

“This derby is very different from the other games and must be played here. You cannot move to the United States, to allow it away from the people.

“Regarding the general issue, we must assess two aspects: the Spanish football brand that wants to grow and the emotional part.

“The second point cannot be lost and if you tell a supporter that to see their team they have to go to another country then it can present problems.

“Maybe you do not pay more, you have to meditate very well, football is a business, but it's also a sentimental sport full of feeling and passion.

“The derby itself? It's true that economically speaking, Betis are getting closer, but we do not have to worry about anyone, just keep doing things right, as before. I

“Last season they were ahead in the league, but we reached the final of the Copa del Rey and Champions quarter-finals.”

Tags Joaquin Caparros
La Liga - Club News