Newcastle United WAG spotted out and about at popular Tyneside beauty spot
The Botman household had double cause for celebration this weekend as Newcastle defender Sven Botman made his long-awaited return to Premier League action while his partner Chana Kesselaar revisited one of their favorite local haunts.
The Dutch center-back’s 83rd-minute introduction during Newcastle’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Ipswich marked his first competitive appearance since February, ending another frustrating injury layoff for the talented 25-year-old.
Botman’s comeback represents more than just another substitute appearance – it’s the latest chapter in his battle against persistent knee problems that have plagued him since 2023.
The former Lille star missed Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph despite playing a crucial role in their semi-final victory over Arsenal, forced to watch from the sidelines as his teammates made history at Wembley.
His return couldn’t be better timed, with the Magpies pushing for Champions League qualification and needing all hands on deck for their final four matches.
While Botman prepared for his emotional return to the St James’ Park turf, Kesselaar was enjoying her own homecoming of sorts at Jesmond Dene – the picturesque Newcastle park that has become a regular retreat for the couple.
The Dutch model shared a heartwarming Instagram story of their dog Leo exploring the picnic areas, captioned “missed our morning walks with this buddy,” offering a glimpse into their life away from football’s relentless spotlight.
The green oasis clearly holds special significance for the pair, having become their sanctuary during Botman’s rehabilitation periods.
On the pitch, Botman’s reintroduction comes at a pivotal moment in Newcastle’s season. Currently sitting third in the Premier League, Eddie Howe’s side control their Champions League destiny with tricky fixtures against Brighton, Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton remaining.
The towering defender’s aerial dominance and composed distribution could prove invaluable during this tense run-in, providing Howe with welcome selection headaches alongside the in-form Fabian Schär and Dan Burn.
Botman’s return also strengthens Newcastle’s defensive options ahead of their inevitable European campaign next season. Their Carabao Cup triumph has already secured Conference League football, but Champions League qualification would represent a remarkable achievement given last season’s continental absence.
The Dutchman’s experience in European competition with Lille makes him an important asset regardless of which tournament Newcastle ultimately enter.
For Kesselaar and Botman, this weekend symbolized a return to normality after months of injury frustrations. Their visible affection for Newcastle life – from morning walks in Jesmond Dene to embracing the city’s passionate football culture – has endeared them to locals.
As Botman rebuilds his match fitness, the couple appear settled and happy on Tyneside, putting to rest any speculation about the defender’s long-term future at the club.
The coming weeks will determine whether this season becomes a springboard for Newcastle’s ambitions or merely another step in their evolution. But for Sven Botman, simply being back on the pitch represents a personal victory after his physical struggles.
His return strengthens Newcastle’s defensive options at the perfect time, while his partner’s social media posts remind fans that behind every footballer is a human story of resilience, recovery, and the simple pleasures of walking one’s dog in the park.
As Newcastle enter their decisive final fixtures, Botman’s presence offers both tactical reassurance and symbolic value – proof that after the setbacks, the hard work and patience can pay off.
Whether strolling through Jesmond Dene or marshaling Premier League attacks, the Botmans are making themselves at home in Newcastle, with the best potentially yet to come for both player and club.