Lionel Messi's Argentina has once again triumphed over England, this time in securing the best training facilities in their shared host city of Kansas City. Both nations are based in Kansas City, Missouri, alongside the Netherlands and Algeria.
Argentina's Top-Tier Base
The reigning World Champions Argentina landed the most impressive training center in the area: the Sporting KC training facility. This state-of-the-art complex, valued at £56 million, offers superior amenities compared to England's base at Swope Park.
For England manager Thomas Tuchel, the location's heat and humidity were crucial factors. However, England faced stiff competition and ultimately settled for Swope Park, which boasts beautiful grounds and numerous pitches. A sign reading 'Home of England' with the Three Lions crest marks their presence, but the setup lacks the polish of Argentina's center.
Other Nations' Bases
The Netherlands secured the KC Training Facility, home to Kansas' women's team, complete with a new hotel. The Dutch squad includes Liverpool stars Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch, along with Tottenham's Micky van de Ven, Manchester City's Nathan Aké, and Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen. A source told the Mirror: "The mood in the camp is very good and the facilities are spot on. The KC Training Facility is used by the women's team here but the facilities really are second to none."
Algeria acquired a modern gym and training complex at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, about 40 minutes west of Kansas City.
England's Choice: Peace and Quiet
Tuchel prioritized privacy and relaxation, selecting the Inn at Meadowbrook in Prairie Village, a quiet suburb. Chris Thomas, a British expat from Leeds who runs a pie business in Kansas, explained: "Argentina won the battle of the training grounds. Their place is state of the art and the Algeria one also cost millions. The Dutch facility is where the Kansas women's team plays, but it is also very impressive. So I think England opted for peace and quiet. I believe the local staff at their hotel have been furloughed for the World Cup because England have their own chefs."
Thomas added: "What England will get in Kansas is a real taste of America. Of all the places I've lived here, it is my favourite place in America. This area is famous for its hospitality. There are good golf courses if they do want to play in their free time. And if they go out and about in town, no one will bother them. The NFL players go out to eat in restaurants and are always left alone. There are some good bars and the locals love to go out for a drink so in that sense it is very English. They respect their privacy when they are with their families."
England is set to travel to the iconic Azteca Stadium to face hosts Mexico in the last 16 on July 6.
