LaLiga confirmed last week that Barcelona’s away fixture against Villarreal will be staged in the United States on December 20 — marking the first time a European league match has been played abroad.

In response, the Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) announced a “symbolic protest” to take place at the start of every LaLiga match this weekend. The action began on Friday, when players from Oviedo and Espanyol stood still for the opening 15 seconds of their game. Broadcasts, however, did not capture the moment.

Real Madrid coach Alonso voiced his support for the players’ stance, criticizing the decision to move the match overseas.

“We are against the match; we believe it distorts the competition,” Alonso said in a press conference. “There hasn’t been unanimity or proper consultation about playing on neutral ground. The protests are positive, and that sentiment is positive.”

Alonso added that while such an arrangement could be considered under full agreement, “that’s not the case here.”

LaLiga leaders Real Madrid face Getafe on Sunday, and Alonso confirmed that Kylian Mbappé is expected to feature. The French striker has been managing ankle discomfort over the past two weeks and missed France’s World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Monday.

“Everyone who joined their national teams, except Dean (Huijsen), has returned in good condition,” Alonso said.