MLS All-stars to play host to Real Madrid?
By Mark Shannon
According to reports Real Madrid and the MLS All-stars will be facing off at the All-Star game in Chicago.
The MLS All-Star game will be held at Soldier Field in Chicago on August 2nd. Real Madrid now look like the likely opponent. While a deal isn’t official, according to a report from ESPN’s Doug McIntyre, it is close to being done.
"“Major League Soccer is lining up mighty Real Madrid as its opponent for this summer’s All-Star Game in Chicago, multiple sources have told ESPN FC.The deal was not yet final as of last weekend, but an agreement is expected that would have the defending UEFA Champions League winner play a team of top MLS players on Aug. 2 at Soldier Field, the sources said.”"
This will be big news for the MLS, if reports are true. A matchup against Real Madrid will probably go down as one of the best MLS All-Star games in history. The MLS has a history of attracting big names to the All-Star game like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich before.
It seemed only a matter of time before the Spanish giants Real Madrid take part in this event. While the MLS has attracted teams from England, Italy, and Germany, this would mark the first time a Spanish side will take part.
The 2017 MLS All-Star game could be one of the biggest ever!
Madrid is one of the most storied soccer franchises in the world. They have the best player in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo. Unfortunately, due to Portugal playing at the Confederations Cup this summer fans might not get the chance to see him play.
Because of their stature in the soccer world, real bring with them a lot of followers. Case in point back in 2014 & 2016 they packed the Big House in Michigan with over 100,000, which is a hard task in itself. Who wouldn’t pay to see the likes of Ronaldo and Bale go head-to-head with MLS All-Stars.
While drawing Real Madrid will be huge for the attendance. Most noteworthy however is the reach it’ll have on the American game in general. Kids who grow up watching Ronaldo on TV will have the chance to see the Portugese star up close, and/or expose them to Major League Soccer.
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Furthermore, the MLS has a winning record against the International sides in this event. Although even with a record of 7-5, and the possibility of Madrid being with Ronaldo, another win would be a tough task.
Let’s hope this report is true. It would make for an exciting game, and offer a ton of benefits for the MLS.