LaLiga Santander Claimed they couldn't play in Spain or France

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has warned Barcelona of the consequences should Catalonia gain independence, claiming that they could lose their status as one of Europe's top dogs.

Although an independence referendum in the region continues to be pushed but remains up in the air, Tebas preferred to focus on the potential fallout for LaLiga and the Blaugrana.

He insisted that they would no longer be able to compete in Spain's top flight and put paid to any dreams of a move to Ligue 1 too.

"If this process progresses then Catalan clubs couldn't play in what remains of Spain," he explained. "I have been surprised by the Secretary of Sport's statements in which he said a choice can be made.

"It is deceiving Catalans who will take part in the independence process. 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 do get that, then they will not be able to play in Spain's LaLiga but I hope it doesn't come to that.

"I'm concerned about Barcelona's future and LaLiga's future if there is independence but it is a question for the citizens of Catalonia.

"If there is interest in a Catalan league or if they really believe they can play against the French, it is an impossible option: a joke.

"Rightly or wrongly, there would be resistance. It is a problem for them. If it was a Catalan league, I'm sure that television rights wouldn't be the same. They would surely cease being a big club in Europe."

Tebas has also come under fire in recent days for comments he made about Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City's spending over the course of the summer and elaborated further on his criticism of the duo.

"Manchester City and PSG are financed with money that hasn't been generated in football. PSG have done more financial doping than City," he continued.

"I don't even consider the Neymar deal as being part of the football market, I consider it part of the gas market but the market is being doped and other clubs in Europe have had to raise wages in inferior conditions."