Arsenal visit Australia first time in 40 years for pre-season tour

English Premier League side, Arsenal FC, have confirmed their 2016/2017 pre-season tour dates in Sydney, Australia.

A statement on the club’s official website reads: “Arsenal Football Club and the New South Wales Government have today announced the match dates for next summer’s pre-season tour, when the Gunners will visit Australia for the first time in nearly 40 years.

“Arsenal will play Sydney FC on Thursday 13th July, and the Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday 15th July 2017 at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney. Tickets will go on sale for the two matches on Tuesday 19th July 2016, with full details on how supporters can purchase tickets released through www.arsenalinsydney.com in due course.

“As a recap of this summer’s activity, the Gunners will travel to the United States in July to play pre-season friendlies against the MLS All-Stars in San Jose and Chivas de Guadalajara at the StubHub Center in Los Angeles. Other pre-season matches in Europe are also under consideration.”

Arsenal Chief Executive Officer, Ivan Gazidis, added: “Our pre-season matches enable the squad to complete final preparations ahead of a new campaign, and Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers will provide a strong test for the team.”

“The trip also gives our travelling squad a wonderful opportunity to see our loyal supporters in a country so passionate about football; it’s set to be a truly special trip and everyone at Arsenal Football Club is already looking forward to it.”