Newcastle United will face Atletico Madrid in the 2025 Sela Cup at St James’ Park on 9 August.
Newcastle’s men and women’s teams will both face their counterparts from Atletico Madrid in a double-header at St James’ Park, with the women’s fixture up first at 1pm BST on Saturday 9 August followed by the men’s fixture at 4pm that same afternoon.
“Playing in the Sela Cup in front of our own supporters is something we really look forward to,” explained Newcastle Men’s Head Coach, Eddie Howe who feels that the competition will motivate his players a week before the new Premier League season commences.
“St. James’ Park is always special, but those games in the summer – seeing all the black and white shirts in the stands – are so unique. It will give the players an extra boost at a crucial time in our preparations.
“Pre-season is all about being ready, both domestically in the Premier League and for the Champions League, so playing a team of Atlético’s calibre is an ideal test.
“They are an extremely talented side, managed by one of the best coaches in the world.”
This fixture will be another tough friendly to conclude their pre-season which sees them visit Celtic before heading to Singapore to face Arsenal, before they take on K League XI and Tottenham in Seoul, South Korea, which excites Howe in terms of quality opposition.
“We will have faced top quality opposition from both English and European football over the summer and it will stand us in good stead.”
Newcastle Women meanwhile are seeking to defend their Women’s Sela Cup title, having beaten AC Milan on penalties in 2024.
Women’s manager, Becky Langley is “really excited” to once again lead her team for the friendly Women’s Sela Cup competition, as she welcomed another tough opponent for her Magpies ahead of their second season in WSL2.
“Like AC Milan last season, Atlético are a huge name with exceptional players so it’s a big test but one we’re motivated for.
“We have another big season ahead of us in WSL 2. Matches like this will give us the physical test and type of experience we’ll need to be ready for it.”
