Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, will return to Asia this summer for preparations ahead of the next season. The current Premier League leaders will also officially open a new stadium during their visit.
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Liverpool has officially announced plans for a high-profile pre-season tour that will take them to Asia, specifically Hong Kong and Japan, as part of their preparations for the 2025/26 campaign.
The club confirmed the news through their official channels, sparking excitement among fans in both countries. The tour is expected to be not only a valuable training opportunity but also a significant commercial venture, with Liverpool aiming to expand its global presence and strengthen ties with its international fanbase.
The Reds, managed by Arne Slot, will kick off their tour with a friendly match against AC Milan in Hong Kong on Saturday, July 26. This fixture will be particularly special as it marks the inaugural game at the newly constructed Kai Tak Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility designed to host major sporting events. Situated on the site of the former Kai Tak Airport, the stadium is expected to become a landmark venue in the region, with Liverpool and AC Milan providing the perfect occasion to christen the arena.
Liverpool’s decision to return to Asia is seen as a strategic move by the club’s management. Asia remains one of the most important markets for European football clubs, with millions of dedicated fans supporting their favorite Premier League teams from afar. The choice of Hong Kong as a destination is also significant, given Liverpool’s previous visit to the city in 2017. On that occasion, Liverpool participated in the Premier League Asia Trophy, where they faced Crystal Palace and Leicester City. The tour was considered a success, both in terms of fan engagement and commercial revenue.
The decision to play AC Milan is another element adding intrigue to the tour. The Italian giants, who themselves have a massive following across Asia, will provide formidable opposition for Liverpool as they gear up for the upcoming Premier League season. Matches between Liverpool and AC Milan have often carried historical significance, particularly due to their memorable clashes in the UEFA Champions League finals of 2005 and 2007. Revisiting this rivalry on Asian soil is expected to draw considerable attention.
While details regarding Liverpool’s visit to Japan are yet to be disclosed, the club has confirmed that it will be their first summer pre-season tour to the country. Japan has long been considered an untapped market for Liverpool, and this visit aims to capitalize on the club’s growing popularity in the region. The Reds have already established strong commercial relationships in Asia, and this tour is seen as an opportunity to build on that foundation.
Liverpool’s visit to Japan is expected to include at least one high-profile friendly match, along with various promotional events and training sessions open to the public. By bringing their star players closer to Japanese supporters, the club hopes to enhance its reputation and strengthen its fanbase in the country.
The decision to organize a pre-season tour in Asia follows last year’s visit to the United States, where Liverpool played several matches against top European clubs. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool has continued to prioritize international tours as a means of enhancing both their competitive preparation and commercial growth. Slot, who took over as manager prior to the 2024/25 season, has been praised for his approach to squad management and his willingness to embrace the global appeal of the club.
Liverpool’s previous summer trip to Asia occurred in 2023, during which they visited Singapore and Thailand for a series of friendlies and promotional activities. That tour was regarded as highly successful, drawing large crowds and providing significant financial benefits to the club. This year’s return to the continent is expected to be even more lucrative, given the inclusion of Japan in their itinerary for the first time.
The timing of the tour is also noteworthy, as it will allow Liverpool to finalize their preparations ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season, which is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, August 16. With Arne Slot looking to build on the progress made during his first season in charge, the pre-season tour will provide valuable opportunities to assess the squad’s readiness and integrate any new signings.
Moreover, Liverpool’s commercial strategy continues to be closely tied to these international tours. The club has consistently demonstrated its ability to leverage its global appeal through high-profile matches and promotional activities. By visiting markets such as Hong Kong and Japan, Liverpool aims to further cement its status as one of the most popular and commercially successful football clubs in the world.
The tour is also expected to include various community outreach programs, youth coaching sessions, and promotional events with sponsors. These activities are designed to enhance Liverpool’s brand image and demonstrate the club’s commitment to engaging with local communities. Additionally, merchandise sales, sponsorship deals, and broadcasting rights from the tour are projected to contribute significantly to the club’s revenue.
Liverpool’s official announcement of their summer tour has already generated significant interest among fans in both Hong Kong and Japan. Ticket sales for the friendly against AC Milan at Kai Tak Stadium are expected to be in high demand, with many supporters eager to witness their idols in action. Meanwhile, anticipation is also building in Japan, where Liverpool’s first-ever pre-season visit is being eagerly awaited.
As Liverpool prepares to embark on their latest international adventure, Arne Slot and his players will be focused on ensuring that their time in Asia serves as the ideal foundation for a successful 2025/26 campaign. With a demanding Premier League season on the horizon, the upcoming tour promises to be both a valuable preparation tool and a memorable experience for fans across the continent.
Updated: 03:58, 31 Mar 2025
