Minnesota United FC will continue their tradition of playing exhibition games against the best teams in the world. They announced on Wednesday that on July 20, they will host AFC Bournemouth in a friendly match.
The announcement comes just days after the Loons hosted Mexico's Club Leon in a match that brought over 18,000 fans to Target Field.
Sporting Director Manny Lagos comments on Friendly
“I think this is an example of what a great sports market we have,” said United Sporting Director Manny Lagos. “We’re creating relationships and networks and people want to come here and play our club. They’ve heard we put on great events and that we’re competitive on the field. I think it’s a big source of pride I think for all of us as Minnesotans. Entering this global sport and being able to play some amazing clubs, and being able to play a Premier League club is quite an honor.”
"Last year the first-team traveled to Philadelphia and it proved to be incredibly beneficial," Bournemouth Chief Executive Neil Blake said. "It's important that pre-season preparations are done correctly and we're pleased that we will be traveling to America once again. Not only will the trip provide the squad with important time together both on and off the training pitches, but it will also be great to play our first game of pre-season against Minnesota United.”
Second time Minnesota United has hosted a Premier League team
This will be the sixth time that the Loons have hosted an international friendly, and the first against a Premier League team since they defeated Swansea City in 2014.
“It’s a great honor for the players on the field when you play a club that is in the biggest league in the world," said Lagos. "You feel an incredible amount of pride because you are putting on the badge of the club you play week in and week out for, and represent yourself in an international competition.”