La Liga can resume behind closed doors from 8 June, says Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. La Liga president Javier Tebas also stated the league will work with clubs in the coming days, to establish an exact return date, likely to be from June 12.
La Liga players this week started training in groups of no more than 10.
“Spain has done what it should and now new horizons are opening for everyone. The time has come to bring back many day-to-day activities,” said Sanchez.
“From 8 June, La Liga will be back. Spanish football has a huge following but it will not be the only recreational activity that will return.”
The Spanish second division is also set to resume at the same time as the top flight, with reports in Spain suggesting the Seville derby between Sevilla and Real Betis will be the first La Liga game to take place.
“We are very pleased with the decision,” said Tebas. “It is the result of the great work of clubs, players, coaches, CSD (National Sports Council) and agents.
“But we cannot lower our guard, it is important to follow health regulations and ensure the pandemic doesn’t come back.”
Initial reports had suggested a six week end to the season, to ensure the league adhered to UEFA’s policy of all 2019-20 campaigns finishing before the end of July.
However, the front page of Sunday’s edition of Mundo Deportivo claims the league is formulating a plan to complete the campaign five weeks from that date. This ambitious plan would see 11 rounds of fixtures fitted into 35 days with the season ending on July 18.
To do this, La Liga would probably have to play matches on every day of the week, and the rush ti finish will leave players open to an increase in muscular issues.
Barcelona currently lead the way in the top flight, with a two point lead over arch rivals Real Madrid, with five clubs in the running for a Champions League qualification spot.
