Arsenal to take on MLS All-Stars led by Wayne Rooney

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Arsenal to take on MLS All-Stars led by Wayne Rooney

Arsenal travelled to the States before this current season
Arsenal travelled to the States before this current seasonReuters
Premier League leaders Arsenal will provide the opposition for the Major League Soccer All-Stars who will be managed by DC United head coach Wayne Rooney (37) at the mid-season showcase, MLS said on Tuesday.

It will mark the second appearance in the All-Star game for Arsenal, who could arrive at Washington, DC's Audi Field for the July 19th match as newly minted Premier League champions.

The north London club tightened their grip on the top of the standings after they moved eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City with a 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

"It’s great that we’re playing against the MLS All-Stars in Washington DC in July," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (40) said in a statement. "Our US tour last summer was very good preparation for the season.

"The match against the MLS All-Stars will be a good test ahead of the 2023/24 season."

For Rooney the All-Star game will be his third.

The former-England forward was on the MLS All-Star squad that faced Atletico Madrid in 2019 and played against the MLS best in 2011 as a member of Manchester United.

"I’ve had a front row seat to watch the growth and development of Major League Soccer, first as a player and now as a manager,” said Rooney.

“The opportunity to lead the best our league has to offer against a top Premier League club like Arsenal will be a highlight for me personally and an unforgettable experience for our passionate fanbase here in DC.”