Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace will face Newcastle United at St James’ Park on August 16 at 5 p.m., the final friendly before the Ligue 1 season starts. The trip caps a summer preparation that has already taken the club to Portugal and featured English opposition.

Why was Newcastle selected?

The club wanted a high‑profile fixture, echoing the July 2022 victory in Liverpool. Newcastle’s iconic stadium and atmosphere provide a perfect physical and tactical test. Captain Ismaël Doukouré stressed the importance of such a challenge to ready the squad for French league demands.

How has the preparation unfolded?

From July 19‑26, the squad trained in Faro, Portugal, playing two friendlies: against Sporting Portugal on July 20 and a closed‑door match versus Blackburn on July 25. On August 1 they faced Brighton in two private games, then on August 4 a match in Haguenau against SV Elversberg, followed by two closed‑door fixtures in Fribourg on August 8.

What are the stakes for the season?

Currently, Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace sits 8th in Ligue 1 with 53 points, 15 wins, 8 draws and 11 losses, and a recent form of WWDLW. The team has scored 58 goals and conceded 47, a +11 goal difference. They trail league leaders Paris Saint‑Germain by 23 points, making every point vital for a European spot.

Who will line up in Newcastle?

The expected starting XI includes goalkeeper Baptiste Reynet, defenders Mohamed Simakan and Romain Faivre, midfielder Ismaël Doukouré, and forwards Ludovic Ajorque and Amine Harit. Manager Julien Stéphan said he will experiment with several attacking setups, taking advantage of the fast pace of English football.

What comes after the match?

Five days after Newcastle, the club travels to Marseille for the Ligue 1 opener. The result at St James’ Park could shape Stéphan’s tactical choices, especially regarding pressing and quick transitions. Fans hope the experience will boost the squad’s confidence ahead of the national challenge.