Newcastle United's pre-season plans: A global tour awaits

Newcastle United are gearing up for an exciting pre-season campaign that will see them travel across multiple countries, facing high-profile opposition as they prepare for the 2025/26 season.

The Magpies are set to confirm a pre-season fixture against Scottish champions Celtic at Celtic Park in July. This will mark their first visit to Parkhead since 2004, making it a highly anticipated encounter for both clubs and their supporters. The match is expected to serve as a warm-up for both teams ahead of their respective Champions League campaigns.

Before embarking on their international tour, Newcastle may play a domestic friendly in England, though details of this fixture are yet to be finalised. This match would provide Eddie Howe’s squad with an opportunity to fine-tune their preparations before heading overseas.

Newcastle’s first confirmed pre-season match abroad will see them take on Premier League rivals Arsenal at the Singapore National Stadium on July 27. This fixture is part of the Singapore Festival of Football, and tickets have already gone on sale, with Newcastle fans expected to travel in large numbers to support their team.

Following their clash with Arsenal, Newcastle are set to travel to South Korea, where they are expected to face Tottenham Hotspur and a representative side in Seoul. The match against Spurs is likely to draw significant attention, given the presence of Son Heung-min, who captains both Tottenham and the South Korean national team. These fixtures will mark Newcastle’s second consecutive pre-season tour of Asia, following their trip to Japan last summer.

Newcastle will conclude their pre-season preparations with the Sela Cup, a now-traditional tournament held at St. James’ Park. The event will feature back-to-back matches against overseas opposition on consecutive days, along with a fixture for Newcastle’s women’s team. This final stretch of pre-season will allow the squad to return home and play in front of their fans before the Premier League season kicks off.

Newcastle’s pre-season tour is not just about match fitness—it is also a strategic move to expand the club’s global presence. The Magpies are keen to increase commercial revenue and strengthen their brand internationally, particularly in Asia, where they have been actively engaging with fans and sponsors. With a mix of competitive fixtures and commercial opportunities, Newcastle’s pre-season plans are shaping up to be one of their most ambitious yet. As they prepare for another campaign in the Premier League—and potentially the Champions League—these matches will be crucial in setting the tone for the season ahead.