Wayne Rooney will have his testimonial match available to view on Facebook, a world’s first between two Premier League teams.
The game will be between Manchester United and Everton Football Club; the two clubs are Rooney’s two ever clubs in his 16 year long career. It’s a big deal as 1.7 billion people will have access to the friendly game, potentially making it one of the most viewed games in history.
Although the lack of actual competition could hinder chances of that happening. The most viewed game in recorded football history was Manchester United against another Merseyside club, Liverpool. Liverpool vs Manchester United in 2015, saw over 700 million people tune in to see Juan Mata perform a mercurial scissor-kick, ensuring United took all three points, despite Daniel Sturridge’s consolation.
The game was made available to more countries than ever before. In comparison – Barcelona vs Real Madrid, kicking off on the same day – drew only 500 million viewers at most.
It isn’t the first time we’ve seen football on Facebook with early FA Cup rounds having been streamed on the social media site.
Proceeds from the testimonial will go to four charities of Rooney’s choice. Rooney said in a Facebook post: “I’m delighted to give my fans around the world a chance to watch the game as we try to raise as much money as possible for the Wayne Rooney Foundation! Thanks for your support!”
United’s new summer signings Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Eric Bailly, are tipped to play in the testimonial. The live Facebook game will give fans an even better look at the players Jose Mourinho has signed over the summer. We’re betting on ‘Zlattin’ special happening.
The testimonial will start today 19:15 BST. You can watch it on the official Wayne Rooney Facebook page. If you prefer the big screen BT Sport are broadcasting the game.
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