Liverpool have confirmed their first pre-season friendly of the 2025/26 campaign, and it’s a familiar name that will welcome them.
The Reds will face Preston North End on July 13 at Deepdale as part of their summer schedule.
We will begin our 2025-26 pre-season schedule against Preston North End at Deepdale on Sunday July 13 🔴
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 5, 2025
This fixture marks the official start of Arne Slot’s first full pre-season in charge after becoming a Premier League champion. The squad is expected to report back to the AXA Training Centre on July 7, with just under a week of training before their first game.
Preston might not be a European heavyweight, but there’s history here. Liverpool have already met the Championship side behind closed doors last season, and also played them away in 2023 when Jurgen Klopp was still at the helm.
This time, the friendly will be played in front of fans, giving Slot an early chance to test his squad with the new signings before the big games begin. It’s also a key chance for younger players to impress and stake their claim.
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Liverpool 2025/26 pre-season plan
This match is part of a broader summer plan that includes a tour of Asia. After facing Preston, Liverpool fly to Hong Kong on July 21.
They’ll then play AC Milan on July 26 at Kai Tak Sports Park before heading to Japan to meet Yokohama F. Marinos on July 30.
With a week between returning from Asia and the Community Shield clash with Crystal Palace on August 10, there might still be room for another game — possibly at Anfield.
The clash with Preston will serve as a gentle warm-up, but don’t be surprised if there’s a little bite to it. Football fans know – even friendlies can have a few nutmegs and nutcrackers.
Slot will be keen to avoid any early slip-ups. After all, no manager wants to start their season by being “deep-daled.”
Tickets for the Deepdale showdown go on sale for season ticket holders and official members from 10 a.m. on June 16. General sale begins a day later at the same time.
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