Both parties cited insufficient planning time and ongoing uncertainties in Spain as the reasons. The proposed fixture had sparked widespread fan backlash and player protests.
Relevent initially announced a postponement, but shortly after, La Liga issued a statement confirming the match’s full cancellation, putting an end to the controversy surrounding the high-profile U.S. showcase.
“Relevent has informed LALIGA of the need to postpone the planned match between Villarreal CF and FC Barcelona in Miami on Dec 20," Relevent said in the original statement.
"Given the current uncertainty in Spain, there is insufficient time to properly execute an event of this scale. It would also be irresponsible to begin selling tickets without a confirmed match in place.”