Sgt. Largent":1l8z2d7m said:
Uncle Si":1l8z2d7m said:
Sgt. Largent":1l8z2d7m said:
The reason for "friendlies" is to expand your brand and make money.
Big clubs travel in order to expand their brands, attract new fans and make money. When the Sounders host big clubs like Man U, Chelsea or Barca? Those big clubs get the lion's share of ticket sales.
So going in reverse wouldn't work. No one in Europe or South America is going to pay money to see the Sounders play one of their clubs.
Well this isnt entirely true. I'm certain supporters will come out to see their own clubs for any game. However, it would not have the allure and draw as it does here because the product there is so much better. I think more than anything is what would the motivation be for the MLS clubs. Have to figure teams like Fulham, West Brom, Southampton (decent Premier teams who dont come to the US) would be hosting, and doubt they would give up much of their ticket sales to the visiting club, as really they would be the attraction.r.
The product is actually pretty equal because when the big clubs come here during the summer it's their preseason and the middle of our regular season. That's why you see a lot of MLS teams playing very well against superior opponents. The Sounders drew 3-3 against Tottenham this past summer.
Which brings up another reason this wouldn't work in reverse. The MLS preseason is January-March, which is the middle of the season for the top leagues.........and those teams couldn't be bothered with playing MLS friendlies.
I think you misunderstood what I meant... I think plenty of English club supporters would turn out to their local arenas to watch their team play anyone, MLS team or whomever.
When the top teams come out here to the US they are usually a steady stream of reserves mixed with regulars, moreso this year due to the World Cup. you really only see something close to their top teams when they play each other. When the top team wants to play its top talent, you get United 8, Seattle 0. Spurs played a mix, 3-3. So you may get a more competitive match, but its more due to the product on the field not being its highest potential. still, a great game by all accounts, and Spurs finished with a strong side if i recall
I agree it wouldnt work in reverse, unless MLS teams are willing to take time from their league schedule (as they do now) to travel to Europe. Not every MLS team had a European friendly. But the MLS would have to make the concession there.
Or.. they could just change their ridiculous scheduling