Newcastle United supporters travelling to Marseille for the Champions League clash have been given fresh guidance after reports of trouble involving small groups of home fans.
What was meant to be an exciting European away day quickly became a mix of warm welcomes and moments of unease as supporters arrived in the city. While some Newcastle fans were able to enjoy drinks and songs with friendly locals, others found themselves caught in incidents that highlighted the tensions surrounding the match.
Several travelling fans reported that groups of Marseille supporters had been actively targeting Newcastle followers on Monday evening. Videos shared online show moments of chaos, with eyewitnesses claiming some home fans gathered in numbers, wearing balaclavas, and sought out bars where away supporters were gathered.
One Newcastle fan, Jamie Robinson, described on social media how he and others were standing outside a bar enjoying the evening before undercover police urgently told them to move inside because trouble was approaching.
Moments later, around 70 masked individuals appeared and attacked the bar, sending glasses flying and forcing fans to take shelter inside. Other witnesses added that police were forced to use tear gas to stop the advancing group, with images showing shaken supporters inside the venue moments after the incident.
Despite these unsettling reports, Newcastle supporters have been reassured that a safe and organised meeting point has been established by both the club and local authorities.
Fans in Marseille were urged once again to gather at Place de la Joliette, the officially designated area where supporters can meet ahead of the game. This location has been set up to help keep Newcastle fans together and protected while also allowing them to enjoy their day.
Bars, restaurants, and entertainment, including a DJ, were arranged to create a lively but secure atmosphere. Supporters were told they could gather there from late morning, drink freely within the area, and make use of the facilities provided.
The Newcastle United Supporters Club encouraged fans to stick to this plan, reminding followers of the kick-off times and expressing hope that the team would build on their recent Champions League form and the victory over Manchester City.
Their message aimed to bring supporters together in one central, safe location as excitement built toward the evening fixture.
Local perspectives in Marseille, however, have varied. Some residents have insisted that most Marseille supporters do not harbour hostility toward English fans and that the city prides itself on its football culture.
A local taxi driver even reassured visiting supporters that the only rivalries that matter to Marseille fans are those with other French clubs. He expressed hope that visitors would enjoy their stay and see Marseille as a passionate football city.
Yet, the actions of a minority were enough to raise concerns and reinforce the need for the guidance issued by authorities.
Newcastle United later released further advice stressing the importance of avoiding certain areas of the city. Fans were strongly urged not to visit the Old Port, a location known for its crowds and nightlife but also a place where tensions can rise quickly on major matchdays.
Supporters were also told not to wear colours or anything that would identify them as Newcastle fans when moving around the city, especially in the hours leading up to the match.
This recommendation was made purely to keep supporters safe and avoid drawing unwanted attention. They were also advised not to hang flags or display club colours anywhere outside the official meeting zone.
Another key piece of guidance highlighted the risk of street crime, with visitors reminded to remain alert, protect their belongings, and ensure they had valid travel insurance.
Pickpocketing and similar incidents are known to occur in Marseille, especially in crowded areas, and the club emphasised the importance of staying vigilant at all times.
As the excitement of a major Champions League match meets the intensity of a passionate footballing city, the focus remains on ensuring that Newcastle United supporters enjoy their trip safely.
With clear instructions from the club and authorities, fans have been encouraged to stick together, avoid riskier areas, and make the most of their European adventure while staying alert and prepared. The game itself promises to be a memorable one, and the hope is that the rest of the trip will continue with far more celebration than concern.
