Soldier Field to host 2017 MLS All-Star game, Real Madrid reported opponent

Major League Soccer announced Tuesday that Chicago's Soldier Field will be the venue of the 2017 MLS All-Star Game, presented for the first time by the league's newest commercial partner, Target.

And, while no opponent was named just yet, Chicago-based reporter Paul Tenorio reports that MLS is in talks with Real Madrid to play in the midseason exhibition match, despite its historic rival Barcelona being initially rumored.

The game itself is scheduled for Aug. 2, and Chicago Fire head coach Veljko Paunovic will oversee the All-Star team. It is the first time the showcase will be played in Chicago since 2006, and the first at Soldier Field.

While league commissioner Don Garber addressed the vocal call for an East vs. West All-Star Game, he defended the league's position in maintaining the MLS vs. World model. He also affirmed the opponent would be a "top five" team but did not provide specific clarification on the guest side.

Last year, the MLS All-Star team succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Arsenal at Avaya Stadium in San Jose, having previously defeated Tottenham by the same scoreline in 2015.

Should Real Madrid be confirmed, Cristiano Ronaldo's team would be the first Spanish outfit to participate in the festivities.