Alan Shearer and Dom Solanke react as Nick Pope sends Newcastle message
Newcastle’s Nick Pope has caught the attention of Magpies legend Alan Shearer and England teammate Dominic Solanke as he seemed to confirm his future.
Pope played 28 games for Eddie Howe’s side this season, as they ensured Champions League football would be coming back to St James’ Park.
Newcastle lost 1-0 to Everton on the final day, but thanks to results elsewhere, they remained in the top five on goal difference.
It looked as if they would be pipped to fifth by Aston Villa, but VAR controversy against Manchester United meant that Unai Emery’s team fell just short.
Pope sends message to fans
After the defeat to Everton, Pope took to social media to reflect on the season and look ahead to the 2025/26 campaign.
On Instagram, he shared a photo of himself on the St James’ Park pitch, along with Jacob Murphy, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff, and Tino Livramento, with the caption: “We’re going on a European tour next season. Thank you for all the support Toon Army and see you around the continent in 25/26!!”
Pope had been linked with a move away from Newcastle, but with the England international saying that he would see the Toon Army next year, it looks like he will be staying put in the north east.
Former Magpies striker Shearer liked the post to show his support and appreciation, as did Pope’s international teammate Solanke.
Newcastle have hope in Champions League
Football Insider Verdict
Last time Newcastle were in the Champions League, back in the 2023/24 season, they pulled off some shock results, including beating PSG 4-1 at St James’ Park.
However, the Magpies ultimately failed to reach the knockout stages, finishing fourth in their group behind the French side, as well as Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan.
| Position | Team | Games | Points |
| 1 | Borussia Dortmund | 6 | 11 |
| 2 | PSG | 6 | 8 |
| 3 | AC Milan | 6 | 8 |
| 4 | Newcastle | 6 | 5 |
With the new league format replacing the group stages, Eddie Howe’s side will feel like they have a real chance of progressing further into the competition next season.
There is no doubt that the squad needs some additions, but Newcastle have been linked with Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, who could help inject some more attacking quality.
Obviously, the key to success will be keeping hold of Alexander Isak, and then hoping he stays fit for the whole campaign.
If they can ensure that their talisman is playing for as many games as possible, then the sky really is the limit for the Geordies.