DUBLIN – Arsenal and Real Betis have confirmed a pre-season friendly match scheduled for August 5, 2026, at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The match marks the first confirmed fixture for both clubs as they prepare for the 2026/27 season and represents a novel encounter between the two European sides.
This will be the first time Arsenal’s first team has faced Real Betis in a competitive or friendly setting. Real Betis will also be making its debut appearance in the Irish capital. The match is set to kick off at 7:30 PM local time (8:30 PM in Spain), offering fans in both countries, and particularly those in Ireland, a chance to see top-tier football action.
A High-Level Test for Both Clubs
Ramón Alarcón, CEO of Real Betis, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming match. “Even though these are preseason matches, we are very excited about this type of fixture given the calibre of the opponent,” Alarcón said. “Now, we will come up against another giant of world football like Arsenal, in a great city like Dublin and at an excellent venue such as the AVIVA Stadium. It will be a high-level test to assess where we stand and a fantastic opportunity for Real Betis fans in the area to see the team’s early progress ahead of the new season.”
Arsenal CEO Richard Garlick echoed this sentiment, highlighting the club’s strong connection with its supporters in the Republic of Ireland. “We’re all excited to be coming back to Dublin in August,” Garlick stated. “We have incredible support in the Republic of Ireland and we’re looking forward to playing a competitive pre-season match at the Aviva Stadium. 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.”
Arsenal’s Return to Dublin and Pre-Season Tradition
For Arsenal, this trip represents a return to Dublin, having previously played at the Aviva Stadium in 2018 against Chelsea during pre-season preparations. They also played a Europa League match in Dublin in December 2020 against Dundalk, though that game was played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The club has a history of utilizing pre-season tours to build fitness and team cohesion, having previously travelled to Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United States in recent years.
The Aviva Stadium, home to both the Ireland national rugby union team and the Republic of Ireland football team, provides a familiar and well-regarded venue for the match. The stadium’s capacity and facilities are expected to provide a fitting backdrop for this high-profile pre-season encounter.
Potential Reunion with Bellerin
The match could also present an interesting subplot for Arsenal fans, with the possibility of seeing former right-back Hector Bellerin in action for Real Betis. Bellerin made 239 appearances for the Gunners before joining Real Betis, and has recently expressed his continued support for his former club. He recently told Footebate, “I really hope (Arsenal win the league). It’s been a long time coming. I think they’re doing a great job. I watch them a lot, lots of old teammates, and I’m still a Gunner.”
Ticket Information
Real Betis fans interested in attending the match will have the opportunity to purchase tickets starting on Friday, March 27, at 10:00 AM through Ticketmaster. Details regarding ticket availability for Arsenal supporters are expected to be released by the club in the coming days.
This pre-season fixture promises to be a compelling contest between two ambitious clubs, offering a valuable preparation opportunity ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. For fans in Dublin and beyond, it’s a chance to witness high-level football and support their respective teams as they gear up for the challenges ahead.
The next confirmed action for both teams will be the commencement of their respective pre-season training camps in July 2026. Further details regarding their pre-season schedules are expected to be announced in the coming months.
What are your thoughts on this upcoming match? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below!
