Image Credits: Imago Images
The build‑up to the Finalissima was supposed to be straightforward: Spain vs Argentina, European champions against Copa América winners, a glamour tie to light up the March international break. Instead, everything around the game has descended into venue chaos – and it is exactly the sort of uncertainty Alexis Mac Allister could do without in the middle of a gruelling season.
The showpiece was originally scheduled for Lusail Stadium in Qatar, but tensions and security concerns in the wider Middle East region have meant that the venue cannot be used.
Various reports have since floated alternative options, with Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu pushed from Spain’s side and other scenarios – including a possible switch to Italy or even the United States – mentioned as potential backups if a compromise can be found.
And it seems that the compromise is still not found with just over two weeks until the 27th of March final.
Reliable TyC reporter Gaston Edul has revealed that the Argentina FA has rejected the notion to play at the Santiago Bernabeu:
“AFA does not accept Santiago Bernabéu as the venue for the Finalissima. CONMEBOL is going to inform UEFA.”
For Mac Allister, every new twist changes the demands being placed on his body. A Finalissima played in Spain would at least mean a relatively short hop from England, manageable time‑zone changes and a quicker turnaround back to Liverpool duty once the international window closes.
Shift the game to Italy and the travel load rises a notch; push it all the way to North America and suddenly Argentina’s playmaker is looking at a long‑haul trip, heavier jet lag and a much longer recovery window before he’s back in Arne Slot’s squad.
Mac Allister has been racking up plenty of minutes for Liverpool and remains a guaranteed starter for Argentina, which makes every extra mile and every extra hour in the air feel significant. Wherever the Finalissima ends up, Liverpool supporters will be hoping common sense prevails – and that the decision leaves their No.10 with as little extra wear and tear as possible.
AFA no acepta Santiago Bernabéu como sede de la Finalissima.
CONMEBOL se lo va a comunicar a UEFA.
— Gastón Edul (@gastonedul) March 12, 2026
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