Since its inaugural season in 1996, MLS has continued the quintessential American sporting tradition of the All-Star Game. Each year, a selection of Major League Soccer’s top talents set aside their club rivalries to team up against an illustrious opponent. Rather than pitting the best players of the Eastern and Western Conferences together – a format MLS initially used in its early years – the MLS All-Star team will often face a top side from Europe or an All-Star counterpart outfit from Mexico’s Liga MX.
Over the years, the All-Stars have faced European giants such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Juventus. In 2023, they will take on Arsenal, who previously appeared in the 2016 edition. The Gunners are not only one of the biggest sides in the Premier League – by the time they feature in this match, they could well be the reigning champions of England’s top flight. Arsenal are bidding to win their first league title since 2004, and with three-quarters of the season gone they hold an 8-point lead over closest rivals Manchester City, albeit the Citizens have a game in hand.
Not only will this game be a rare chance for American fans to watch Arsenal in action, but it’s also the chance to see all of MLS’ biggest stars operating in the same team, which is selected via a combination of fan voting plus selections by the coach and league commissioner. As with any All-Star Game, fans can also expect a relaxed atmosphere where the focus, first and foremost, is on fun, with events such as a Skills Challenge and Concert often accompanying the main spectacle, so it’s perfect whether you’re an MLS season ticket holder or a casual enjoyer of the beautiful game.
This year’s edition will be held at DC United’s Audi Field on 19 July. Tickets start at USD $312. For more information on the 2023 MLS All-Star Game and its tickets, click here.
