Could Barcelona join the Premier League?

Barcelona, along with Espanyol and Girona, could look at joining the Premier League, Ligue 1 or Serie A if Catalan independence is secured, according to the region’s sports minister.

Could we see Lionel Messi face English oppositions week in, week out?

If Catalunya, the region where FC Barcelona is based, breaks away from Spain and forms an independent nation the fate of Messi and Co. could look bleak.

The region is seeking to be recognised as a separate nation, and should the controversial move happen there are indication that exiles could be excluded from the league. Barcelona, along with Espanyol and Girona, could look at joining the Premier League, Ligue 1 or Serie A if Catalan independence is secured, according to the region’s sports minister.

Read: Spanish international Pique calls for peaceful expression of opinions ahead of the planned referendum

A controversial referendum is due to be staged on Sunday even as the Spanish government has deemed the process illegal, with ballot boxes being seized and Prime Minister Mariano declaring that the vote “won’t happen”.

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 [the 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."