Newcastle Fans Face Uncertainty Ahead of Marseille Match

MARSEILLE, France – Newcastle United fans are traveling to face Olympique de Marseille with concerns echoing in their ears. Official warnings about pickpocketing, street crime, and potential football-related violence add to the unease. Messages from families urging fans to ‘stay safe’ amplify their worries in a city often listed as one of Europe’s most dangerous.

Despite this anxiety, Newcastle arrives in Marseille buoyed by a 2-1 home victory against Manchester City on Saturday. The team has performed well in the Champions League, winning against Union Saint-Gilloise, Benfica, and Athletic Bilbao. However, since early April, their only away win came in Brussels.

Manager Eddie Howe is cautious about discussing the mental challenges faced by his players on the road. “This is different to Premier League games,” he said. “I don’t know if you can compare them.” Newcastle is currently sixth in the European table with nine points from possible 12, close to securing a spot in the knockout phase.

Marseille’s coach, Roberto De Zerbi, is familiar with the English game, and the match will feature notable players, including Mason Greenwood. The former Manchester United forward, now leading Ligue 1 in goals, has created a strong presence in Marseille alongside forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

<p“He’s not just a goalscorer; he creates chances too," Howe noted about Greenwood. "We will need to defend well against him.” Aubameyang, 36, remains a formidable threat, with Howe remarking on his sharpness and finishing ability.

Newcastle prepares to face a Marseille team fresh off a 5-1 win against Nice and currently fighting for a chance in the Champions League. The Stade Vélodrome often serves as a hostile venue, and part of the south stand will be closed due to past incidents involving fan violence.

While fears of violence led authorities to implement strict regulations, Newcastle supporters are expected to remain cautious, avoiding club colors and certain areas of the city. Even with the potential for hostility, experts believe the atmosphere may lean towards camaraderie rather than animosity.

<p“Newcastle resembles Marseille; there could be more affection than anger," said football expert Jeremy Talbot. "Marseille's support is passionate and electric." In their previous encounter back in 2004, Newcastle was eliminated by Didier Drogba’s Marseille in the UEFA Cup semifinals.

As the game approaches, questions surround Newcastle’s consistency. Howe expressed the need for his players to regain confidence. “We have to build our confidence to be able to do that,” he said. “These games will be the acid test for us.” With the upcoming matches critical, both teams are keen to rise to the challenge.