Everton and Minnesota United are to join forces to host an event at Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in North America, on Tuesday ahead of their much-anticipated fixture in the Twin Cities.
Everton will meet Major League Soccer side Minnesota as part of their build-up to the forthcoming Premier League season, with the game to take place at United’s Allianz Field in Minneapolis-Saint Paul on Wednesday 20 July.
The day before (Tuesday 19 July), the two clubs will unite for 'Everton @ Minnesota United: The Pre-Match Warm-Up' in celebration of the contest, with supporters of both teams urged to gather in the Mall of America's Huntington® Bank Rotunda event space, located inside the iconic 5.6 million square feet, 520-store venue.
Evertonians, Loons and shoppers will get to learn more about both clubs, with guest appearances from players and legends, including Everton Giant and current Minnesota United head coach Adrian Heath and Everton Director Graeme Sharp.
Heath, a former teammate of Sharp's, scored 94 goals in 308 games for Everton between 1982 and 1988, winning four major honours. He has led Minnesota United since the franchise's inception in 2017, with the team currently fifth in the MLS Western Conference.
The event, which will begin at 6pm CT, will see guests and supporters from both sides - including Dr David France - interviewed live on stage and the winner of the 2022 North American All Star Award will be announced.
There will also be plenty of Everton and Minnesota United giveaways and competitions to build the anticipation for the 20 July clash.
Scott McLeod, Head of Engagement and Communications at Everton, said: “This is a fantastic event for Evertonians from across the US and those travelling from further afield to again come together during our visit to the States, following on from our planned activity in Baltimore and Washington DC. It’s also an opportunity for us to reach a new audience in Minnesota and explain to them what makes Everton and our global fanbase so special.
“The two clubs already have a strong link in our mutual affection for Adrian Heath and, as well as delivering a memorable occasion to preview and celebrate the match, we hope to strengthen our relationship with Minnesota United and their own passionate set of supporters.”
For information about more fan events taking place in and around Baltimore, Washington DC and Minneapolis-Saint Paul during Everton’s pre-season trip to the United States, click here.
Tickets for the Blues' game against Minnesota United are on general sale. For more information or to buy, click here.
