Independence-Seeking Catalonia Says Barcelona, Espanyol Would Remain In La Liga

The Spanish state of Catalonia's advisory council said on Friday that "nothing should stop Barcelona or Espanyol from continuing to compete in La Liga in the event that Catalonia gains independence from Spain," according to the EFE. This "was the conclusion from one of four reports presented by an organization studying Catalonia's pursuit of independence." The report indicated that both clubs would "probably stay in La Liga" because of "the sporting and economic interests of the clubs." The statement said, "Without predicting at this time what decisions clubs will make, nothing would prevent, for example, FC Barcelona and Espanyol from participating in Spanish leagues" (EFE, 12/20).