The potential return of English Premier League (EPL) clubs to Hong Kong is generating excitement, with talks underway to revive the Asia Trophy.

The Premier League Asia Trophy, a pre-season tournament, was inaugurated in 2003 and held biennially until 2019. It was established due to the increasing popularity of the Premier League in Asia. The tournament has been held in various locations, including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Beijing, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Hong Kong has hosted the tournament four times, more than any other city.

The tournament typically involves three Premier League clubs and a local team from the host country. However, the 2017 edition was unique, featuring four Premier League teams: Liverpool, Leicester City, West Bromwich Albion, and Crystal Palace. Liverpool won the 2017 Asia Trophy, defeating Leicester City 2-1 in the final.

The Asia Trophy employs a knockout system, with winners of the first matches advancing to the final and losing teams competing in a third-place playoff. For the 2017 edition, Shanghai SIPG's withdrawal led to Crystal Palace participating, marking the first time the tournament featured only Premier League teams.

Past tournaments in Hong Kong have featured prominent EPL clubs, including Chelsea, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Sunderland, and Tottenham. High attendance figures and a strong Premier League fan base have made Hong Kong a desirable location for the tournament. The 2011 edition saw Chelsea triumph over Aston Villa before a capacity crowd at Hong Kong Stadium. However, the 2013 event faced criticism due to heavy rain and a degraded pitch.

Seven different clubs have won the Premier League Asia Trophy: Chelsea (twice), Bolton Wanderers, Portsmouth, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Manchester City has participated in the tournament three times, more than any other club.

The Premier League Asia Trophy was initially known as the FA Premier League Asia Cup. From 2007 to 2015, it was referred to as the Barclays Asia Trophy due to sponsorship. The tournament was discontinued after 2019.

The potential revival of the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong could provide a boost to the city's sports scene and economy. It would also allow EPL clubs to engage with their Asian fan base and promote the league in the region.