Why Barcelona Wants UEFA To Move Their Champions League Match

‎FC Barcelona has taken the unusual step of formally asking UEFA to reschedule the second leg of their UEFA Champions League round-of-16 tie from Tuesday, 17 March, to Wednesday, 18 March.

‎While such scheduling requests are rare a point highlighted in reporting from ESPN Deportes the club believes the adjustment is essential to avoid a clash with one of the most consequential events in its domestic calendar, the presidential elections set for 15 March.

‎Elections, Fixtures, and a Tight Turnaround

‎Barcelona’s electoral process is always a defining moment, shaping the club’s sporting and financial strategy for years. With the first leg of the knockout tie scheduled for 10 March away from home, followed by elections on the 15th.

‎The current calendar forces an intense, physically and mentally demanding sequence for both players and staff.

‎Complicating matters further, their La Liga fixture against Sevilla remains scheduled for 4:15 p.m. on election day. Though La Liga flagged the fixture due to possible European commitments, it has not yet been moved.

‎As it stands, Barcelona would have to play a key league match amid the electoral frenzy and then immediately shift focus to a crucial Champions League decider two days later.

‎For a club accustomed to maximum control over its institutional image, this tight turnaround risks unnecessary chaos at a pivotal point in the season.

‎Potential Opponents Raise the Stakes

‎The timing is only part of the story. The draw features two sides that would pose significant challenges, Paris Saint-Germain fresh from a dramatic 3-2 victory over Monaco, and Newcastle United, who showcased their attacking power in a commanding 6-1 demolition of Qarabag FK.

‎Both clubs bring contrasting but equally daunting threats. PSG’s star-driven frontline and Newcastle’s high-pressing relentlessness would test Hansi Flick, with Hansi Flick still fine-tuning his Barcelona side during his first season at the helm.

‎Being seeded ensures that the second leg will take place at the iconic Camp Nou, offering Barcelona home comfort but in knockout football, comfort alone is never enough.

‎The Road to Budapest

‎The long-term focus extends beyond March. The final, set for 30 May in Budapest, remains the ultimate objective. Internally, the message is clear, Barcelona wants to reestablish itself at the apex of European football.

‎Sources within the club indicate that players and staff are acutely aware of what’s at stake both on the pitch and in the boardroom.

‎Every performance, every decision, and every detail will shape not only the season but also the direction of the institution during a transformative period.

‎Elections add yet another layer of pressure. Joan Laporta remains the favourite to retain the presidency, though challengers are gaining visibility as they refine their campaigns.

‎Whichever candidate wins will inherit a club in the midst of both competitive opportunity and structural transition.