England to train at Swope Soccer Village during World Cup
Thomas Tuchel’s England squad will operate from the Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City during their World Cup campaign, reports BritPanorama.
The £15million training complex, which opened in 2007, is located within the historic Swope Park and features nine pitches, including six synthetic surfaces and three Bermuda grass fields.
Several Premier League teams have previously used the venue during American tours, including Manchester City, Manchester United and Newcastle United. A small stadium with a capacity for around 2,000 spectators is also part of the campus.
The facility previously served as Sporting Kansas City’s home before becoming their academy base. Kansas City has now emerged as an unexpected hub for the tournament, with two of England’s major rivals establishing similar operations in the Midwest.
Argentina, the defending champions led by Lionel Messi, are expected to train at Sporting Kansas City’s current first-team facility. The Netherlands will also base their preparations there, while Algeria is set to use Rock Chalk Park in nearby Lawrence.
Harry Kane and England’s senior players were consulted regarding the base camp decision, which reflects a preference for a single headquarters rather than relocating between cities during the competition. This strategy could minimise travel demands, given that England’s group stage matches will take place in Dallas, Boston, and New York.
The choice of Kansas City is viewed as logical, allowing the team to focus on their training routines. Local residents are reportedly anticipating a significant economic boost from hosting multiple national squads throughout the tournament, a reminder of the world’s attention shifting to this midsize American city.
Amid the excitement, the competition itself remains the biggest challenge, as England navigates their path through the expanded 48-team format, which introduces a new dynamic for both players and fans alike.
