The recent catastrophic floods in Spain’s Valencia region have stirred strong reactions across La Liga, with many managers criticizing the decision to proceed with games despite the devastation. Over 211 people have died in what’s been labeled Spain’s deadliest flash flood and the second-deadliest in Europe this century. While some La Liga matches, such as Valencia vs. Real Madrid and Villarreal vs. Rayo Vallecano, have been postponed, others are still scheduled, prompting outcry from leading coaches and players.
Diego Simeone: “It Doesn’t Make Any Sense”
Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone was one of the most vocal critics, expressing his frustration during a press conference before his team’s game against Las Palmas on Sunday. “It doesn’t make any sense,” Simeone stated. “The tragedy we’re witnessing is unprecedented, and it’s incredibly difficult to focus on football when so many are suffering.” Simeone praised those who rushed to assist flood victims, calling their efforts inspiring but insisting it felt inappropriate to continue with La Liga fixtures under such circumstances.
Simeone underscored his desire to support affected communities, noting the resilience of volunteers working to clear debris and aid recovery efforts. “Seeing people out there, with just shovels and tools, trying to help speaks volumes about the spirit of this country,” he added. “We want to help wherever we can, but playing matches feels out of place when our fellow citizens are enduring such hardship.”
Barcelona’s Hansi Flick Echoes Calls for Suspension
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick joined Simeone in voicing doubts over La Liga’s decision to maintain the schedule. Ahead of Barcelona’s derby against Espanyol, Flick empathized with those affected, particularly Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, who hails from Valencia. “If it were up to me, I would have suspended the matches. This is a tragedy for Valencia and all of Spain,” Flick commented.
Reflecting on similar floods that struck Germany three years ago, Flick described the disaster’s toll as “horrible” and called for compassion over competition. “We will do everything we can to help, but the decision to play or pause should prioritize the well-being of the people affected,” he said. Flick’s comments highlight the emotional toll on those connected to the region, emphasizing that La Liga’s response should take this into account.
Symbolic Gestures from Players Amid Continued Matches
Despite the frustration, some players took the opportunity to show solidarity with flood victims. Real Valladolid players wore shirts honoring flood victims during their match against Osasuna, which ended in a narrow defeat. Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez also expressed support for Valencia, lifting a shirt bearing the message “Força Valencia” after scoring the opening goal in their 4-3 win over Leganes. Gutierrez’s tribute was deeply personal, as he revealed a close friend’s mother remains missing due to the floods.
“This match shouldn’t have been played,” Girona manager Michel echoed after the game. Gutierrez, visibly emotional, shared, “The first shirt I lifted was for my friend Enrique, whose mother is still missing. It’s difficult to celebrate when you know people are experiencing such suffering.” His remarks shed light on the personal connections many players have to the tragedy, which further complicates the decision to continue with La Liga fixtures.
Government Response and La Liga’s Position
Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing and warned that the death toll may rise further. Torrential rains destroyed vital infrastructure in Valencia, isolating communities and cutting off essentials like water, food, and electricity. Sánchez expressed sympathy for the affected regions and noted that the government is working tirelessly to aid recovery efforts.
La Liga, meanwhile, faces mounting pressure to reassess its response. While the league postponed a handful of games, critics argue this is insufficient given the scale of the disaster. Simeone, Flick, and Michel’s remarks represent a broader sentiment across Spanish football that sport should take a backseat until the country can begin to heal. With both fans and players rallying for a more compassionate response, La Liga may need to reconsider its decision and adopt a more supportive stance in the face of national tragedy.
