Excitement Builds for Stoke City vs. AZ Alkmaar Preseason Clash

The Potters have announced a busy preseason, including new signings and investments in their training ground, aiming to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming EFL Championship season and the push for Premier League promotion.

Given Stoke City's current focus on new signings and a well-planned return to competitive action, the proposed preseason schedule is crucial for forming a quality team ready to face the challenges of the 2024/25 season. There are still rumors of several offensive signings to come.

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Preseason Schedule for Stoke City:

• Monday, July 1: Players return to Clayton Wood for preseason training
• Thursday, July 11: Chester FC vs. Stoke City (kick-off at 19:45)
• Saturday, July 13 to Friday, July 19: First-team training camp in Cork
• Wednesday, July 17: Cork City vs. Stoke City (kick-off at 19:45)
• Tuesday, July 23: Crewe Alexandra vs. Stoke City (kick-off at 19:30)
• Saturday, July 27: Stockport County vs. Stoke City (kick-off at 14:00, two 60-minute halves)
• Tuesday, July 30: Bolton Wanderers vs. Stoke City (kick-off at 19:30)
• Saturday, August 3: Stoke City vs. AZ Alkmaar (kick-off at 15:00)
• Saturday, August 10: EFL Championship season begins

For the complete schedule, visit Stoke City's website

The final match before the EFL season starts will be against AZ Alkmaar, a two-time Eredivisie champion, at Bet365 Stadium on Saturday, August 3. This match will be an important test for both clubs to gauge their readiness.

For Stoke City, this game is particularly significant as it will be their only preseason match against a top-tier European team. AZ Alkmaar were semifinalists in the 2022/23 UEFA Conference League, making this encounter a prestigious opportunity for the English side to showcase their strength and heritage as a historic club in England.