Barcelona may demand too much from Dubai comp

The opener of Dubai's US$1 million international football tournament on 30 December will feature Juventus lining up against either Barcelona or AC Milan at the Dubai Exiles Stadium. According to event organiser, Pedro Martinz, CEO of 2R, the Spannish club has confirmed availability but there are "differences about the financial budget". Speaking to Khaleej Times, he said Barcelona had "requested too much money and under the circumstances we may organise an Italian Derby in Dubai between Juventus and AC Milan, which is of course more cheaper.”

Clubs from Asia and Latin America will also be participating. “Corinthians Paulista, one of the most known teams in Brazil, and Tokyo Verdy, the greatest Japanese club, have also confirmed coming to Dubai,” Martinz, said. No final word has been received from Bayern Munich although the German club is scheduled to be camping in Dubai during the tournament days.

See also: Dubai targets football and global sports business (25 Sept)