Catalan Independence: Barcelona could join the English Premier League

If Catalunya were to break free of Spain then the Camp Nou giants, along with Espanyol and Girona, would have to explore options away from La Liga

Barcelona could join the Premier League if Catalonia becomes independent after a referendum on Sunday, the sports minister of the region has claimed.

The Spanish government insists the vote is illegal and so will not happen while police have seized ballot boxes and those loyal to Spain are set to boycott.

However, there is backing for independence among Catalonia’s population - which totals 7.5million people.

Even former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola is keen on independence but there is uncertainty around the outcome for the football clubs in the region if independence happens.

“In the case of independence, Catalan teams in La Liga – Barcelona, Espanyol and Girona – will have to decide where they want to play: in the Spanish league or a neighbouring country: Italy, France or the Premier League,” said Catalonia's minster of sport Gerard Figueras.

“Now in Spain there are teams from other countries who play in national leagues: clubs from Andorra in football and basketball. Monaco play in France, in England Welsh clubs. I don't think that UEFA has anything against seeing another club play in a different league from their country.”

However, Liga president Javier Tebas, said: “In sport, it isn't a la carte and things must be clearly stated. It isn't easy to have an agreement and study Spanish legislation but if they (Catalan clubs) do get that, then they will not be able to play in Spain's La Liga, but I hope it doesn't come to that."

Espanyol and Girona would also face and uncertain future if independence came about, while Barcelona's football club have yet to address the issue directly in terms of what they would do if it happens.

If Catalunya were to break free of Spain then the Camp Nou giants, along with Espanyol and Girona, would have to explore options away from La Liga Read Full Story