Newcastle United to host Bayer Leverkusen in pre-season friendly at St. James’ Park on August 15

Newcastle United will meet Bayer Leverkusen at St. James’ Park on August 15 in a pre-season friendly ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. The match is scheduled as part of both clubs' final preparations before the new season.

Newcastle arrive following a 1-3 defeat against Everton FC and have played five pre-season games, winning only twice. The match report described the Everton outing as a poor effort and stated that Matthias Jaissle mentioned that they are not ready for their Premier League 2026-27 opening game against Liverpool. Bayer Leverkusen, led by Carles Martínez Novell, had produced strong pre-season form until a 1-2 loss to Nottingham Forest ended their five-game winning run.

The article notes that "The 28-year-old was the sole goal scorer for the Magpies in their 1-3 defeat against the Toffees." It adds that, "On the left flank, he is going to be a constant threat to the opponent’s defence," and that Harvey Barnes was the standout performer for Newcastle United in their previous contest and will be looking to deliver it once again. Newcastle may be without Lewis Hall, who "might not be in action for Newcastle United due to a knock during the recent outing."

For Bayer Leverkusen, Patrik Schick "was once again on the scoresheet" and "has now scored three goals in the last two matches for his club and will play a crucial role in the final third once again." The piece states the 30-year-old "can be deployed as the sole striker once again and can be a major threat to Newcastle’s defence." It also reports, "Bayer Leverkusen will be eager to jump back to winning ways." The article includes the club's social media message: "Thank you so much for your hospitality, @NFFC – we've loved our stay! 🫶 pic.twitter.com/T9LyF1Fl0R"

On squad availability, the preview says "For Bayer Leverkusen, all of their squad members are fit and set to be in action." The listed players in the article appear as: Hornicek (GK); Shahar, Thiaw, Botman, Charlton; Bamba, Joelinton; Elanga, Wissa, Barnes; Osula Blaswich; Vazquez, Bade, Belocian, Gutierrez; Fernandez, Garcia; Poku, Maza, Terrier; Schick.

The preview comments on momentum and match outlook, stating that "The low-confidence Magpies can struggle at home as well if they fail to find the rhythm. The Werkself will come with a clear intention of a tough fight. Bayer Leverkusen might come out on top and secure a win against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park." Broadcast information in the article lists USA: Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo, and notes that fans in the host nation can tune into DAZN and NUFC TV to view the pre-season game live.

The friendly at St. James’ Park on August 15 serves as a final tune-up ahead of the 2026-27 campaign for both clubs.