Pre-season preparations play a crucial role in setting the tone for a successful campaign in football. The hard work put in during this period often translates into momentum and impactful performances throughout the season. Several high-profile friendlies are scheduled as teams gear up for the upcoming season, providing fans with exciting matchups to look forward to.
With the 2023-24 season due to kick off next month, here are five of the most anticipated pre-season games to look forward to this July.
5. Manchester United vs Arsenal, 22 July
Both Manchester United and Arsenal are displaying signs of resurgence, much to the delight of Premier League fans. After underwhelming performances in recent seasons, the clash between these two sides on 22 July is expected to be a highly competitive and captivating pre-season encounter.
4. Real Madrid vs Manchester United, 26 July
In 2014, a staggering crowd of 109,318 witnessed an intense pre-season friendly between Manchester United and Real Madrid at the Michigan Stadium, setting a record for modern-era attendance. As two global powerhouses in football, Real Madrid and Manchester United are set to face each other again on 26 July.
3. Manchester City vs Bayern Munich, 26 July
On the same night as the Real Madrid vs Manchester United clash, Manchester City will have their own high-profile encounter against Bayern Munich at the Japan National Stadium. Manchester City is coming off a remarkable 2022-23 campaign, where they clinched the continental treble under the guidance of Pep Guardiola.
2. AC Milan vs Juventus, 27 July
AC Milan’s 2022-23 season had its ups and downs, where they narrowly came close to reaching the Champions League final. On 27 July, however, these storied Italian clubs will renew their rivalry at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. This clash between AC Milan and Juventus, both with global fanbases, promises to be a memorable spectacle.
1. Real Madrid vs Barcelona, 29 July
Real Madrid’s pre-season tour features four high-profile matches, with the highlight being the friendly against Barcelona on 29 July. The iconic Clasico will take place on American soil, making it the most prestigious pre-season friendly of the year.
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