Two Premier League giants will be making their way to Northern Ireland this summer to take on some of Europe’s best at the SuperCupNI.
Manchester United and Liverpool have both been confirmed for a special Under 18 Elite section at this year's tournament.
They will be joined by former SuperCupNI Premier champions Valencia from Spain and German outfit Hertha Berlin.
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This innovative Elite competition coincides with the 40th anniversary of the SuperCupNI and each of the games are sure to attract bumper crowds.
Manchester United and Liverpool are long-term supporters of the tournament, with the Red Devils a regular visitor to Northern Ireland for over 30 years.
Liverpool graced the tournament back in the 1990s and they returned to the competition in 2012, the same year that Carnlough native Brendan Rodgers took over the reins at Anfield.
La Liga side Valencia wowed the crowds in what was their first appearance at the competition in 2019 as they defeated Newcastle United in the Premier showpiece, while German giants Hertha Berlin last competed in 2008.
SuperCupNI chairperson Victor Leonard said they were delighted to receive the support of four high-profile clubs.
He said: “The tournament is renowned across the world and over the years we have been able to develop a number of strong friendships through football.
“When we approached Manchester United and Liverpool about this venture, both clubs were incredibly supportive and were keen to throw their support behind it.
“We have been able to stay in close contact with our contacts at Valencia and their Academy were full of praise for tournament after their debut in 2019 and we know that they will bring over an incredibly talented side for this tournament.
“Hertha Berlin are also well respected in Germany as a club that promotes young players, and we were delighted to have the club confirm their participation.”
Both Liverpool and Manchester United have massive support in Northern Ireland and Victor believes there will be considerable interest in the Elite section.
“Supporters of both clubs in recent years have witnessed first hand the likes of Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Curtis Jones and Trent Alexander-Arnold starring at the tournament and we have no doubt that all of the games will be very well attended," he added.
“We are expecting supporters to attend in their numbers at each of the games and this will have a positive impact on the council area as a whole as local businesses reap the rewards of increased footfall in the Coleraine, Ballymena and indeed the surrounding areas for the six matches.
Elite section fixtures
Monday, July 24
- Manchester United v Hertha Berlin – 7.45pm – Coleraine Showgrounds
- Liverpool FC v Valencia – 7.45pm – Ballymena Showgrounds
Wednesday, July 26
- Manchester United v Liverpool – 7.45pm – Coleraine Showgrounds
- Hertha Berlin v Valencia – 7.45pm – Ballymena Showgrounds
Friday, July 28
- Manchester United v Valencia – 8pm – Ballymena Showgrounds
- Liverpool v Hertha Berlin – 8pm – Coleraine Showgrounds
Check out the website supercupni.com or SuperCup NI social media channels for ticketing details for the Elite matches in the coming weeks.
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