AC Milan's Perth Serie A fixture against Como sparks global debate

The unprecedented relocation, approved by UEFA on an exceptional basis, has ignited a fierce debate over the future of domestic football.

Como, currently eighth in Serie A and managed by Cesc Fabregas, has framed the decision as a necessary "sacrifice" for the survival of the league.

In a statement, the club acknowledged the challenges of such a move but emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving football landscape. "We understand that this journey may demand sacrifices in convenience, comfort, and routine," the statement read.

"Yet sometimes sacrifice is essential, not for individual benefit but for the greater good, for growth, and above all, for the survival of the league itself."

The financial disparity between Serie A and the Premier League has been a driving force behind this decision. While the Premier League's domestic broadcast deal is valued at £6.7 billion over four years (approximately £1.7 billion annually), Serie A's domestic deal stands at approximately £780 million per year.

This significant gap in revenue has led Italian clubs to explore alternative avenues for income. "This imbalance gives English clubs an enormous financial advantage," Como noted, "allowing them to keep their stars, attract the best talent, and expand their global influence."

However, the move has faced criticism from various quarters. AC Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot has termed the plan "completely crazy" and "really absurd," expressing concerns over the physical strain on players and the commercial motivations behind the decision.

The French players' union (UNFP) has backed Rabiot, highlighting the importance of player welfare and the potential negative impact on the sport's integrity. "His opinion reflects the views of many players," the union stated, emphasizing the need for players to voice valid concerns.

Serie A Chief Executive Luigi De Siervo dismissed the criticism, asserting that players should respect their employers and the decisions made by their clubs. "Top players, who are paid correspondingly for the workload that they carry out, should understand better than others that this is a sacrifice that can be made," De Siervo said.

The move has also drawn attention from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, who expressed concerns that taking matches away from their community roots risks "breaking" football. UEFA granted approval for the match in Perth, citing uncertainty around the regulatory framework and stating that the decision should not set a precedent.

As the match approaches on February 8, 2026, the debate continues over the balance between commercial interests and the preservation of football's traditional values.