Arsenal named as 2016 MLS All-Star Game opponents

“We’re thrilled to be able to welcome Arsenal this summer for a number of reasons”, said MLS deputy commissioner Mark Abbott. “There are a number of deep connections between Arsenal and our league”, he added. Arsenal last played in the U.S.in 2014 when the club played the New York Red Bulls.

The Gunners also will play Mexican side Chivas in late July at the StubHub Center outside Los Angeles. Through Wenger’s leadership, Arsenal FC have built a renowned reputation of playing some of the most attractive and exciting soccer in the world. “We look forward to a world-class event on July 28 at our newest state-of-the-art venue, Avaya Stadium”.

Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino, left, celebrates with teammates Jordan Henderson, centre, and Jordon Ibe after scoring his second goal during the English Premier League soccer match between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield Stadium, Liverpool, England, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2016. Avaya Stadium is the newest stadium in MLS, having opened during the 2015 season and it is the first cloud-enabled stadium in MLS, featuring European-inspired architecture with a canopy roof, the steepest-raked seating in the league and the largest outdoor bar in North America. Last year, MLS took on Arsenal’s rival, Tottenham Hotspur, for their All-Star game in Colorado.

“Both are going to be competitive, which is exactly what we want in the preseason”, Arsenal executive Alex Wicks said. “It is also the ideal opportunity for us to showcase Avaya Stadium to the world”.

The city previously hosted the game in 2001 at San Jose State University’s Spartan Stadium.

The match will be held at Avaya Stadium in San Jose at 9 pm.

Arsenal has a couple of direct front-office ties to MLS.