Serie A Overseas Games Controversy: Rabiot’s Clash with De Siervo
The Serie A overseas games controversy erupted when AC Milan’s Adrien Rabiot called plans to play league matches abroad “completely crazy” on October 7, 2025. The French midfielder criticized Serie A’s decision to stage a February 8, 2026, match between Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, highlighting grueling travel demands. On October 8, 2025, Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo responded sharply, urging Rabiot to “respect his employer” and acknowledge his high salary. This Serie A overseas games debate, fueled by UEFA’s approval for global matches, underscores tensions between player welfare and commercial ambitions.
The Serie A overseas games issue questions football’s balance of growth and health. Rabiot’s stand and De Siervo’s retort frame a critical moment for the sport’s future.
Rabiot Slams Overseas Travel
On October 7, 2025, Rabiot voiced concerns in Le Figaro. “Traveling 20 hours for an Italian match is absurd,” he said of the Milan-Como game, relocated due to San Siro’s 2026 Winter Olympics renovations. “We talk about player health, but this is crazy.” The Serie A overseas games controversy reflects his frustration with adaptation to a packed schedule.
Rabiot, who joined Milan in July 2025, emphasized the toll. “We adapt, as always,” he noted. His Serie A overseas games critique aligns with players facing congested calendars, including the 2026 World Cup.
De Siervo’s Firm Defense
At a Rome assembly on October 8, 2025, De Siervo countered Rabiot’s Serie A overseas games criticism. “He’s right, but players like Rabiot, earning millions, are paid to play,” he said. Comparing it to NFL and NBA global events, he added, “This strengthens our product.” De Siervo’s Serie A overseas games stance frames it as vital for visibility.
He urged Rabiot to respect Milan’s push. “It’s financial agreements beyond players,” De Siervo said. UEFA’s October 6, 2025, approval for one overseas game per club from 2026-27 drives this ambition.
Global Trend in Football
The Serie A overseas games controversy mirrors La Liga’s December 13, 2025, Villarreal-Barcelona match in Miami, which drew 2.5 million viewers but faced backlash. “It’s unaffordable,” fans said. Rabiot’s concerns echo Pedri’s: “Travel is too much.” The Serie A overseas games debate questions if profit outweighs player strain.
UEFA’s rule allows one foreign match per season. Serie A’s Perth game targets Asia’s market, but players like Rabiot demand input. The Serie A overseas games issue tests football’s global push.
Player Welfare at Stake
Rabiot’s Serie A overseas games critique highlights welfare. A 2025 Fifpro report noted players like Mathew Ryan log 100,000 miles annually. “It’s crazy to add more,” Rabiot said. With 38 league games, cups, and internationals, burnout looms. The Serie A overseas games controversy amplifies calls for balance.
Unions like FIFPro push for limits. “Players aren’t machines,” a spokesperson said on October 8, 2025. The Serie A overseas games debate urges prioritizing health over revenue.
La Liga’s Miami Influence
La Liga’s Miami game set a precedent for the Serie A overseas games controversy. Its success boosted revenue, but players criticized travel. De Siervo sees it as a model, yet Rabiot warns of risks. “It’s beyond us,” he said, noting power imbalances. The Serie A overseas games issue reflects this divide.
Milan’s Perth match, approved October 7, 2025, aims for growth. However, Rabiot’s stand questions its cost to players, fueling the Serie A overseas games debate.
Future of Serie A Overseas Games
The Serie A overseas games controversy shapes 2026. UEFA’s one-game rule limits scope, but clubs seek more. Rabiot’s voice calls for reform. De Siervo’s vision clashes with welfare priorities, risking further tension.
FIFPro advocates for caps. “We need dialogue,” they said. The Serie A overseas games issue could spark change, balancing expansion with player health.
In conclusion, the Serie A overseas games controversy, sparked by Rabiot’s October 7, 2025, criticism and De Siervo’s October 8 response, exposes football’s commercial vs welfare divide. The Milan-Como match in Perth, set for February 8, 2026, fuels debate. The Serie A overseas games issue demands solutions to ensure football’s growth respects its players.
