Premier League Summer Series: Four Teams Announced

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    Bournemouth, Everton, Manchester United, and West Ham United are set to embark on a preseason tour in the United States as they participate in the second edition of the Premier League Summer Series. These English football clubs will engage in three separate doubleheader matches during the summer in preparation for the 2025-26 Premier League season. The exciting news was revealed on Sunday during the halftime interval of the match between Manchester United and Arsenal, which was broadcast over major platforms.

    Richard Masters, the Premier League’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the enthusiastic and dedicated fan base in the U.S., pointing out how they regularly tune in to support their favorite teams during the Premier League season. “We are thrilled to present these top-notch teams, filled with world-class talent, to our fans in the U.S.,” Masters stated.

    The series is scheduled to begin on July 26 at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey. This venue is already in the spotlight as it is set to host the final of the 2026 World Cup. On the day, Everton will lock horns with Bournemouth while Manchester United will face off against West Ham United. The next set of matches is planned for July 30 at Soldier Field, Chicago, featuring a clash between West Ham United and Everton, and another involving Manchester United facing Bournemouth.

    To conclude the series, the final set of games will be held on August 3 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Bournemouth will square off with West Ham United, and Manchester United will challenge Everton. A sense of anticipation is evident among the players, with Everton defender James Tarkowski calling the series “super exciting” and emphasizing the strong support from local fans.

    Among the clubs participating, three have American ownership. Everton recently came under the Friedkin Group’s ownership last fall. Additionally, Manchester United is owned by the Glazer family, who also own the NFL team Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Bournemouth’s ownership includes William Foley, who is also associated with the NHL team Vegas Golden Knights.

    Bournemouth fans will be eager to see U.S. international Tyler Adams, who has provided three assists in 17 games in his debut season with the team. Meanwhile, the inaugural Summer Series in 2023 welcomed six clubs. The series then featured Aston Villa, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Fulham, and Newcastle United, each playing three matches across five different venues. Chelsea emerged victorious with a commendable record of two wins and one draw.

    NBC commentator Tim Howard observed that the first Summer Series provided valuable insights throughout the season. He explained that these early games are crucial for managers to synchronize their teams, establish fundamental tactics, and address technical and fitness goals. Howard underlined the significance of observing these matches closely for an entire season, as they engage with managers and players to glean honest insights that, in turn, enhance tactical analysis.

    Airing and streaming options include Peacock for all six matches, with two also featuring on NBC.