Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool are said to be planning their next pre-season location, with one region already shortlisted.
The Reds’ pre-season preparations last summer saw Arne Slot’s squad jet off to Asia, with stops in Hong Kong and Japan marking the club’s first visit to the region since 2023. The tour proved a commercial and footballing success, with Liverpool facing AC Milan at the brand-new Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong—the first-ever football match hosted at the venue – before heading to Japan to take on Yokohama F. Marinos.
Despite the positive vibes generated during pre-season, the campaign that followed has been a mixed bag for the defending champions.
Now, according to the Daily Mail, Anfield chiefs are exploring a return to America for next summer’s preparations. The USA holds fond memories for Slot, as it was the location of his very first pre-season as Liverpool boss. In summer 2024, the Dutchman guided the Reds to three wins from three on American soil, defeating Real Betis in Pittsburgh, Arsenal in Philadelphia, and Manchester United 3-0 in Columbia, South Carolina.
Those games were well attended and brought in significant revenue streams for the club, making a return across the pond an attractive proposition.
Lewis Steele adds:
“While America is not agreed on or officially signed as the pre-season destination of choice, Liverpool like the idea of returning there for several reasons.”
“Firstly, it is a guaranteed commercial win that can piggy-back off the World Cup in North America this summer. The omens are good also given they won the Premier League title on the back of their last visit there and club staffers liked that trip given the relatively short flight time to the east coast, large hotels and facilities available for training, plus how easy it is to get around.”
Another intriguing development, according to the report, discussions with Championship promotion hopefuls Wrexham over a friendly in New York City. The Welsh club, owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have also held talks with Manchester United and Newcastle over potential pre-season fixtures. Liverpool and Wrexham haven’t faced off competitively since the 1978 League Cup quarter-final.
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