Newcastle United fans are braced for a pre-season update on the club’s proposed trip to Germany later this summer.
The Magpies’ northern neighbours Leeds United announced on Tuesday that the Championship outfit would be heading to Germany for friendly games. But they also notified their fanbase NOT to travel after a ban on supporters was imposed by German authorities.
Leeds warned their supporters that they would not be welcome in Europe in July. It is understood that German police have found themselves short staffed after the European Championships and a backlog in holidays – after all vacations were cancelled – means pre-season games can’t be policed.
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Newcastle are scheduled to visit Adidas’ HQ in Germany but could also face matches behind closed doors. A Leeds statement read: “Leeds United can confirm the club will travel to Germany for a pre-season training camp ahead of the 2024/25 season.
“Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond control of the club, we have recently been informed that any friendly matches played in Germany have been ordered to take place behind closed doors. We understand that supporters will be frustrated at this news, as we are equally as a club. We have explored all avenues, however, it has not been possible to overturn this decision.
“As always, we would like to thank you for your commitment and dedication, but in light of the above, we kindly ask supporters expecting to see Leeds United in pre-season training or matches, not to travel to Germany.”
Any news of fans being locked out in Germany would serve as a blow for both Newcastle’s fan clubs and commercial staff at St James” Park. Newcastle are heading to Japan but every trip abroad offers the chance to grow the global supporter base.
Newcastle Supporters Club posted to members this morning: “Leeds also travelling to Germany for training camp but have been advised games must be played behind closed doors Still waiting for updates/confirmation of games v Hull (away) and the Sela Cup at St James’ Park.”