Full Breakdown
Arsenal to Face Real Betis in Dublin Pre-Season Friendly
3/25/2026, 6:26:48 AM
Match Details and Significance
Arsenal Football Club has officially announced a pre-season friendly match against LaLiga side Real Betis, scheduled for Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM local time. This event marks Arsenal's return to Dublin for a pre-season fixture for the first time since August 2018, when they played Chelsea in front of a sold-out crowd. The club's Chief Executive Officer, Richard Garlick, expressed enthusiasm about the match, highlighting the strong support Arsenal has in the Republic of Ireland and the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season against high-quality opposition.
Historical Context
Arsenal's previous visit to Dublin in 2018 ended in a 1-1 draw against Chelsea, which was decided by a penalty shootout that Arsenal won 6-5. The club also played in Dublin in December 2020 during a UEFA Europa League match against Dundalk, although that game occurred without fans due to COVID-19 restrictions. The upcoming match against Real Betis is expected to foster connections with supporters and provide vital preparation for the 2026/27 campaign.
Key Figures
Hector Bellerin, a former Arsenal player currently contracted with Real Betis until 2028, is expected to feature in the match. His participation adds a personal element to the fixture, as he will face his former club.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the match will go on pre-sale starting March 25, 2026, at 4 PM Dublin/London time. Fans can purchase tickets through the official Arsenal website.
Broader Implications
This friendly match is part of Arsenal's broader pre-season strategy, which includes plans for additional overseas fixtures in Europe. The club is also preparing for the Community Shield, scheduled for August 16, 2026, at the Principality Stadium in Wales, which may influence their pre-season scheduling.
Official Statements
Richard Garlick stated, “We’re all excited to be coming back to Dublin in August. Facing Real Betis will provide high-quality opposition and vital preparation ahead of the new season. It promises to be an exciting match and we’re really looking forward to connecting with our supporters in Dublin once again.”
What's Next
As the date approaches, further details regarding Arsenal's pre-season schedule and potential additional fixtures are expected to be announced. The club is currently in discussions about another overseas friendly, although no specifics have been confirmed yet.
This match against Real Betis not only serves as a competitive opportunity for Arsenal but also reinforces the club's commitment to engaging with its international fan base.
