Once it opens for Minnesota United FC, Allianz Field should not only be a viable MLS venue but also a home for top-level matches, according to commissioner Don Garber.
Allianz Field is currently under construction in St. Paul’s Midway neighborhood, with its opening projected for 2019. Along with serving as United’s first soccer-specific venue, Allianz Field is being positioned as the anchor of a larger redevelopment concept for the surrounding area.
Its opening is drawing considerable anticipation, including from Garber. The commissioner toured the stadium’s construction site on Thursday, and billed it as a venue that should be capable of drawing high-profile events in addition to league games. That could include CONCACAF Gold Cup matches and all-star games. More from the Pioneer Press:
“I know we will undoubtedly host lots of games here outside of league games, whether those are all-star games or whether that is CONCACAF Gold Cup matches or other international matches, U.S. men’s and women’s national team games,” Garber said.
“(It’s) very centrally located. Lots of great things in and around it and perfectly sized and lots of amenities and revenue-generating opportunities. I think the future is going to be really bright.”
United already is working to host an MLS all-star game, CONCAFAC Gold Cup matches and U.S. national team contests in the $200 million stadium going up at corner of Snelling Avenue and Interstate 94.
United FC begin MLS play in 2017 as an expansion entry. It has played home matches at the University of Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium while awaiting the completion of Allianz Field.
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