Photo by ivan03

Manchester City have announced the first date of their 2011 North American summer tour. The club played several preseason friendlies in the United States last summer, and will be facing teams this summer too. The first date announced on their North America tour is against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Manchester City will play the Vancouver Whitecaps on July 18 at Empire Field as part of the 2011 World Football Challenge.

“We’re delighted to be heading to North America, and are very excited about travelling to Vancouver to play Whitecaps FC,” said Garry Cook, Manchester City FC Chief Executive.

Tickets for the international match, valued at $60 each, will be provided as a special bonus to all season ticket holders that have signed up before April 30. Whitecaps FC season tickets are available at a pro-rated price – starting at $268 – through the Whitecaps FC office at 604.669.9283 or online at whitecapsfc.com/season-tickets.

In addition to the game against Vancouver, Manchester City will be playing two additional games on their U.S. tour. These dates and opponents will be named later.

Manchester City’s tour of North America means that both Manchester clubs will be on the continent this summer in addition to other Premier League sides touring the States such as Newcastle United and Everton.