Bristol City (a) Public sale now
Valencia (a) SOLD OUT
Bayer / Strasbourg (h) Public sale now
Liverpool (h) Member ballot open Mon 27.07, Noon
Spurs (a) ST applications open Mon 27.07, 2pm

2026/27:
Own goal saves blushes

Gateshead  1  Newcastle  1

Newcastle's first public pre-season game saw them make the short trek to the International Stadium on Saturday, facing a Gateshead side now managed by Lee Cattermole.

A poor game saw The Magpies salavage a draw thanks to an own goal in the 79th minute after the home side had gone ahead in the 34th minute.

A fairly strong starting 11, wearing the new blue away kit saw Sean Steur begin the game and give an assured performance but that was a rare highlight in an otherwise unmemorable contest.

Heed's opener came when a free-kick hit the wall and broke to New Zealander Luke Supyk who slotted the ball past Nick Pope.

The equaliser followed Lewis Hall's left wing cross that hit Ben Williams giving Adam Desbois no chance.

Team: Pope (Jaouen 69), Barnes (Park Seung-soo 77), Hall (Salia 82), A.Murphy, J.Murphy (Sanusi 77), Neave (Ferreira 69), Ramsey (Munda 82), Schar (Pivas 60), Shahar (M.Miley 69), Steur, Willock (Charlton 82).
Subs n/u: Gillespie, Harris, Craggs, Finneran.

Goal: og (Williams) 79.

GFC: Desbois, Anifowose (Newton 60), Boatswain, Chadwick (Bone 73), Chapman (Lowery 85), Fenton (Telford 60), Ferguson, Home (Williams 73), Lavery (Leach 73), Robinson (Trialist 60), Supyk (Ward 60).
Subs n/u: Jameson, Smith.

Booked: Home.

Goal: Supyk 35.

Crowd: 7,195 in the 11,800 capacity International Stadium.

A minute's silence for Kevin Keegan took place before kick-off.



After the game Eddie Howe said:

To follow.

The National League hosts had already played three warm-up fixtures, following up a 6-0 win at Blyth Town by drawing 1-1 at Heaton Stannington and 3-3 at Hebburn.

United's most recent senior fixture at Gateshead was back in July 2023; second half strikes from Elliot Anderson, Allan Saint-Maximin and Jay Turner-Cooke cancelling out a 2-0 interval lead for Mike Williamson's Tynesiders.

The remainder of United's public pre-season programme are available as paid live streams from NUFC.

More details here 

Incoming:
Bamba: deal done

Monaco midfielder Aladji Bamba became Newcastle United's fourth senior signing of the current transfer window, confirmed on Friday morning.

The 20 year-old has completed what is reported to be a £35m deal and takes the vacant number 8 squad number, almost inevitably also inheriting the previous shirt-wearer's terrace anthem.

The France U20 defensive midfielder has made just 18 Ligue 1 appearances (10 starts) since his senior debut for Monaco in August 2025.

Bamba also featured in five Champions League ties; starting against Club Brugge and PSG and joining from the bench against Real Madrid, Juventus and PSG.

He's yet to net at senior level for the Monegasques.

The Magpies were represented at several Monaco games last season, supposedly monitoring fellow defensive midfielder, Senegal international Lamine Camara.

2026/27:
South West Mags meet

The newly-formed Newcastle United Supporters Club in South West England are meeting up at a pub ahead of Wednesday's Bristol City friendly at Ashton Gate.

Venue is The Spotted Cow at 139 North Street in Bedminster, BS3 1EZ, which is a 15 minute walk from the away end. All welcome from 5pm onwards. 

More details via their Facebook page here

2026/27:
Squad numbers

Confirmed squad numbers for this season as follows:

1 Nick Pope
2 Tino Livramento
3 Lewis Hall
4 Sven Botman
5 Fabian Schär
7 Joelinton
8 Aladji Bamba
9 Yoane Wissa
10 Will Osula
11 Harvey Barnes
12 Malick Thiaw
14 Sean Steur
17 Bazoumana Touré
19 Anthony Elanga
23 Jacob Murphy
24 Ewen Jaouen
27 Nick Woltemade
28 Joe Willock
29 Mark Gillespie
31 Aidan Harris
33 Dan Burn
37 Alex Murphy
39 Bruno Guimarães
41 Jacob Ramsey
51 Leo Shahar
62 Sean Neave
67 Lewis Miley

Obviously more will be added (or subtracted) following confirmed movements in the transfer market.

Aside from the previously-announced allocation of the number 14 shirt to Sean Steur, fellow new boy Bazoumana Toure plumped for 17, Ewen Jaouen took 24 and the new owner of 8 is Aladji Bamba.

William Osula is now listed as inheriting 10 from Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento takes 2 from Kieran Trippier and Anthony Elanga moves to 19.

Elsewhere in the squad, Leo Shahar takes 51 and reserve goalkeeper Aidan Harris moves to 31.

2026/27:
Spurs (a) tickets

Application details for United's first PL away game:

ST applications open Mon 27.07.2026, 2pm
ST applications close Tue 28.07.2026, 2pm
Seat selections open Wed 29.07.2026, 2pm
Seat selections close Fri 31.07.2026, 2pm

Allocation: 3,038

PS: The Magpies have published ticket sale timetables for the following eight PL away games, with the proviso that they may change once fixture dates are confirmed - as it stands, none of those eight are 100% confirmed.

We'll continue to publicise the relevant details in time for applications to be made; just FYI, ST applications are forecast to open on Mon 10.08.2026 for Leeds (a).

Update:
KK: tributes continue

What became a shrine to Kevin Keegan in the days since his death outside the South West Corner of St.James' Park will continue until club staff start removing it on Tuesday.

Manager Eddie Howe and members of his coaching staff laid floral tributes on Tuesday, with Jacob Murphy adding a Keegan 7 shirt. Former Magpies Shola Ameobi, Peter Beardsley, Lee Clark and Steve Harper have also visited.

Countless tributes have come from ex-Newcastle players and coaches, alongside an unprecedented level of response from football personalities, clubs and fans with no direct link to KK, other than an appreciation of his contribution to the game.

PS: Wor Flags are raising funds to stage a Keegan-themed tribute ahead of the season opener at home to Liverpool in August. Donations can be made online here

Update:
The King is dead

Following his own recent comments, news of Kevin Keegan's death comes as no surprise, but remains a shock of seismic, "remember where you were when you heard" magnitude. 

His arrival on Tyneside in 1982 not only filled the ground of a club that was dying of indifference, but gave it some desperately-needed legitimacy, some pride in the colours.

It's difficult to properly describe the enormity of someone like Keegan joining a Second Division side but it was massive. Then to see him, Chris Waddle and Peter Beardsley net 65 goals between them and gain promotion in his second season was phenomenal.

Anticipation turned to excitement and a return to the top flight, only for the rot to set in again prior to a second act almost a decade later, when the roof truly came off and dreams almost became the most memorable reality.

In the absence of the coveted silverware, what remains tangible are moments of high emotion from the debut goal versus QPR and four goals at Millmoor via his walkout and Milburn steps cameo to Howay 5-0 and Graham Fenton. 

The third coming of Keegan remains a regrettable episode for all concerned; his biggest victory coming in a courtroom rather than a football pitch - the legacy of which was a self-imposed exile from Gallowgate that he spoke of ending earlier this year, but tragically didn't get to enjoy.

It's as the inspirational captain and then ringmaster of the Entertainers that he'll be fondly recalled by generations of Geordies - along with countless individual moments; a handshake here, a photo or an autograph there, just a minute of his time but etched in the recipient's memory.

His passing severs another connection with football as it once was, coming just hours after the unpalatable circus where a World Cup Final should have been.

Love it? we certainly did. Farewell Special K.

PS - it still niggles us that the "Love it!" clip is always referred to as the time KK lost the mind games with Fergie.

It was arguably Kev's finest hour in response to some shameful utterances from the Manchester United boss after the Red Devils had just beaten Leeds 1-0 and thumped Forest 5-0.

It was actually a fantastic rallying call but it perhaps came a game too early - following our win at Elland Road but before the fateful 1-1 draw at the City Ground.

It's also worth recalling that far from throwing away the title that season through kamikaze defending, Newcastle only conceded two more goals than their rivals. It's also often forgotten that the Mancs collected an incredible 40 points from their final 15 games to win the league (plus six FA Cup wins on their way to a "double").

Latest:
KK RIP

Statement from the Keegan family, Monday:

"It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.

"Kevin, a double Ballon D'or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather.

"The family would like to thank Kevin's incredible medical team for all their support.

This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."

From Newcastle United, Monday:

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.

"Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.

"As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.

"As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer.

"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.

"Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him.

"At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

"Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy.

"Rest in peace, King Kev."

From Eddie Howe:

"Like everyone connected with Newcastle United, I was devastated to hear the news that Kevin has passed away.

"On behalf of our players and staff, I want to send our love, strength and deepest condolences to Kevin’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"Kevin was an inspiration to me as a young player and, I’m honoured to say, a friend whose guidance and support meant a great deal in recent years.

"Long before I ever dreamed of becoming a manager, I was captivated by his Entertainers team. They played with courage, freedom and excitement. They made people fall in love not only with football, but with Newcastle United.

"Those teams reflected Kevin himself – passionate, positive, fearless and full of energy. That spirit remains part of this club’s identity today and will continue to push our players and staff and inspire generations to come.

"Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.

"For me personally, Kevin’s influence became even more meaningful when I arrived at Newcastle United as manager.

"He showed me incredible warmth and generosity. He had already given so much to this football club, yet he immediately made me feel welcome.

"Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.

"What struck me most was his humility. Despite everything he achieved in the game and his iconic status here, he never sought recognition. He simply wanted to help because he cared deeply about the club and the people within it.

"Every conversation with Kevin left you feeling better. He had remarkable warmth and humour and also a love for football that touched everyone around him. It is profoundly saddening that he is no longer with us.

"Kevin’s legacy will live on through this football club, its supporters and everyone he inspired.

"Thank you, Kevin, for everything. Rest in peace."

From Terry McDermott and his family:

"We are heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend, Kevin Keegan.

"Kevin was so much more than a team mate. He was a lifelong friend whose warmth, loyalty, humour and passion for football touched so many lives. The memories they shared, both on and off the pitch, will be treasured forever.

"Although Terry’s dementia means he is no longer able to express his feelings publicly, we know how much Kevin meant to him and how deeply this loss would have affected him.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Jean, Laura, Sarah and all of Kevin’s family at this incredibly sad time. We hope they find comfort in the love and respect being shown for Kevin by so many people.

"Kevin was one of football’s true greats, but to Terry he was, above all, a cherished friend.

"He will be greatly missed and never forgotten."

Update:
Bruno: radio silence

Several weeks after interest from Bruno Guimaraes in joining Arsenal was reported, there are no public developments over the status of Newcastle's captain. 

Claims of a verbal agreement over personal terms for the 28 year-old were made at the time, but are yet to be followed by any report of a confirmed bid.

Ending his World Cup participation on July 5th, it's believed that the Brazilian is due to begin pre-season training when United decamp to La Manga in the week leading up to the kickabout at Valencia on August 8th.

Update:
Second string
striker secured

Newcastle have confirmed the signing of 19 year-old forward Afner Ca following his release by Spanish side Levante.

The Guinea-Bissau youth international spent last season playing for Levante's U19 side, having moved there from Portuguese club Amora last summer. 

A five year deal is claimed for Ca, whose recruitment is part of the club's attempts to boost their U21 side.

He's set to return to Spain when Robbie Stockdale's squad hold a training camp at Pinatar next month, following a public pre-season fixture at Spennymoor.

2026/27:
Home comforts

Newcastle  3  Darlington  0

Match report

Update:
UEFA publish NUFC settlement details

Following Newcastle's publicised breach of UEFA's own financial sustainability regulations, further details of the settlement reached are now in the public domain here

2026/27:
Bayer/Strasbourg (h)

Newcastle conclude their pre-season programme with kickabouts over successive days at SJP as follows:

Sat 15.08.2026 Bayer 04 Leverkusen (3pm)
Sun 16.08.2026 Strasbourg (4pm)

Games are billed as the VisitMalta Weekender 2026, with a kickabout between NUFC Women and Inter Milan at 1pm on Sunday before the Strasbourg men's game.

Tickets are on public sale now.

Prices:

Day 1 Bayer Leverkusen:
Premium: £30 adults, £15 concessions
Others: £25 adults, £12.50 concessions
Adult +concession combo: £60 (2 adults, 2 concessions)

Day 2 Inter Women / Strasbourg:
Premium: £30 adults, £15 concessions
Others: £25 adults, £12.50 concessions
Adult +concession combo: £60 (2 adults, 2 concessions)

Strasbourg have appointed Hugo Oliviera as head coach after Gary O'Neill left to manage Ipswich Town.

Portuguese-born, the 47 year-old is no stranger to SJP, having previously assisted Marco Silva when he was in charge of Fulham, Everton, Hull ​City and ​Watford.

The borrowers:
Loan lads


Antonio Cordero (Cadiz):
Friendly for Antonio at home to Cordoba on Saturday.

Harrison Ashby (Luton Town):
A home debut is in prospect for Harrison this Sunday, when Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles head to Kenilworth Road.

Odysseas Vlachodimos (Seville):
Vlach arrived from the bench at half-time  as Seville beat Cordoba 5-4 on penalties following a goalless draw.

Seville now stage a training camp in the Netherlands, with games at NEC Nijmegen on Friday and Utrecht on Sunday.

2026/27:
TV times

The Premier League have published their revised fixture schedule for live TV covering August and September, with Newcastle's opening four games all altered:

Sun 23.08.2026 Liverpool (h) 4.30pm Sky
Sat 29.08.2026 Spurs (a) 5.30pm Sky
Sat 05.09.2026 Bournemouth (h) 12.30pm TNT
Mon 14.09.2026 Leeds United (a) 8pm Sky*
Sat 19.09.2026 Hull City (h) 3pm no live UK TV

* if NUFC or LUFC are in the Carabao Cup Third Round and drawn against a club in the Champions League (Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City or Manchester United), this game will be on Sat 12.09.2026 @ 12.30pm.

Assuming both sides survive the Second Round, a final decision on the PL game will rest on the Third Round draw, which takes place on or around Tue 25.08.2026.

The possible move is because Carabao Cup Third round ties are once again split over two weeks, the first clashing with Matchday 1 in the Champions League Group stage.

PS: Although trains are scheduled to run as usual between Newcastle and London on the day of the Spurs away game, Kings Cross station will be closed the following day.

Update:
Squad updates

Senior players signed (4):
Ewen Jaouen, Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba

Senior contracts extended (2):
Mark Gillespie, Fabian Schar (both to 2027)

Senior players sold (2):
Anthony Gordon (Barcelona), Sandro Tonali (Spurs)

Senior players loaned (3):
Harrison Ashby (Luton Town), Antonio Cordero (Cadiz), Odysseas Vlachodimos (Seville)

Professional contracts signed (6):
Sam Alabi, Guy Bloomer, Jake Durrant, Henry Johnson, Mason Miley, Kacey Wooster

Scholarship contracts signed (8):
Chukwudi Afumuzor, Theo Benjamin, Roman Dowell, Jayden Kouossu, George Mair, Leon Mukumbira, Alfie Seldon, Lesecond Yeutembip

Development squad players sold (2):
Travis Hernes (Groningen), Joe White (Crewe Alexandra
 

What Else?