NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed they will be travelling to Japan as part of this summer's pre-season programme.

The Magpies will take part in the 'J.League International Series 2024 powered by docomo' tournament as part of their preparations ahead of the start of the 2024-25 Premier League campaign.

Eddie Howe and his players will arrive in Tokyo on Sunday, July 28 before taking on 2022 AFC Champions League winners Urawa Red Diamonds at the 63,700-capacity Saitama Stadium on Wednesday, July 31.

Newcastle will then face last season’s J.League runners-up, Yokohama F. Marinos – managed by former Leeds and Liverpool midfielder Harry Kewell – at the Japan National Stadium on Saturday, August 3.

“We are pleased to be visiting Japan this summer," said Magpies head coach Eddie Howe. "It’s an amazing country and it will be a unique experience for our players, staff and supporters.

“We will be taking on two strong teams at two special stadiums, and I’m sure they will present the type of physical tests we need at that time as we build towards next season.”

Ticket information and further details of the trip – including plans for supporter events in Tokyo – will be confirmed in due course.

Japan has become an increasingly popular pre-season destination for European sides in recent years, with Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan and Celtic all having played in the country last summer. Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund have confirmed they will be playing in Osaka this summer as part of their own  Asian tour.

“We thank J.League and docomo for inviting the club to be part of what has become a hugely popular series in the Japanese football calendar," said Newcastle's Chief Commercial Officer Pete Silverstone. “Newcastle United has fan communities in Japan and across Asia, and this is an exciting opportunity for the club play in front of local and travelling supporters on an iconic stage as we continue to grow our presence globally.

“Meanwhile, we want to connect and engage with partners both in the UK and in other key territories. As we step out in our new adidas kits, for example, we will be wearing a brand that has a long-established and special connection with Japanese sport and culture, and that presents unique mutual opportunities.

“For any pre-season tour, our aim is to support the needs of our teams during this crucial period and the players will train and play at elite facilities in Japan. We are continuing to work collaboratively on our overall pre-season schedule and hope to announce additional matches in the UK and Europe soon.”