MLS ALL-STAR GAME
Arsenal to be announced as 2023 MLS All-Star Game opponents
The North London side previously featured in the All-Star Game in 2016, running out 2-1 winners over the MLS’ select XI.
Premier League leaders Arsenal are reportedly in line to be the opponents for the 2023 MLS All-Star Game. The Gunners are currently eight points clear at the top of the table and would represent a stern test for the MLS select XI.
The Athletic report that the North London club have been confirmed privately as the visiting team, although the decision has not yet been announced officially.
For the past two seasons the MLS All-Stars have played the Liga MX All-Stars, rather than a touring side. However the introduction of the Campeons Cup and the Leagues Cup has prompted the MLS to look further afield for this year’s opponents.
Arsenal also featured in the All-Star Game in 2016, with the Gunners securing a 2-1 victory.
Who will be the manager for the MLS All-Star Game?
League tradition dictates that the select XI will be led for the one-off game by the coaches of the host city’s MLS side. This year the fixture will be held at DC United’s Audi Field, in Washington DC.
This means that former Premier League star Wayne Rooney is expected to lead the MLS side against long-time rivals Arsenal.
As a player, Rooney burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old with a stunning 30-yard strike against an Arsenal team that went on to win the league that season. Over the course of his stellar career, Rooney scored 15 times in 35 matches against the Gunners.
The game will be held on 19 July. The Premier League side will be on a pre-season tour of the United States at the time with most of their top players expected to be in contention to play