Malick Thiaw and Yoane Wissa join refugee footballers at Newcastle United Foundation

Newcastle United Foundation welcomed Newcastle United’s Malick Thiaw and Yoane Wissa to a special football session supporting refugees and people seeking asylum across the North East.

The players joined participants for an afternoon of small-sided games and conversation, meeting individuals from more than a dozen nationalities who attend weekly Foundation sessions designed to promote wellbeing, community integration and opportunities through sport.

Newcastle United Foundation delivers free weekly football sessions across the North East, offering a supportive environment for people who have fled conflict or persecution.

Speaking during the visit, Yoane Wissa said: “It’s really nice to come and spend time with people in the community. It gets them thinking about football and helps take their mind off what’s happened in the past. Having the chance to make even five minutes of someone’s life different is so amazing for us.”

Malick Thiaw added: “It feels really important, especially at this club, to have that connection with the community. The fans are so involved with us players - in the stadium but also when you walk through the streets. People are very kind to us, so we’re just trying to give something back, most importantly on the pitch, but also outside of football as well.

“This is what I would call a family club and that’s something that you don’t see as often. We are really grateful for the fans and people of the city.”

Alongside football, participants can access wider community support, English language opportunities and signposting to partner services.

Shayan Gazerani, Project Coordinator at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “Having professional players like Malick and Yoane visit is hugely motivating for our participants and highlights how football can positively shape lives.

“It has been a pleasure to share this opportunity with our participants and for both players to spend time getting to know the people here.”

He added: “Our refugee football sessions help people build confidence, make friends and feel part of the community. We are proud to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported using football as a shared language to bring us together.”

In 2024, Newcastle United Foundation, alongside Newcastle United Football Club, were awarded Football Club of Sanctuary status for their inclusive commitment and dedication to supporting people in the city who are seeking refuge.

And since the start of the 2025/26 season, the Foundation has delivered more than 190 free sessions through its United for Sanctuary programme. Sessions include opportunities to play sport like football and badminton, educational workshops, and family-orientated activities.

Sessions supporting people who have recently arrived in the region are made possible by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery. Funding administered via the Postcode Active Trust aims to improve the health of communities by encouraging and inspiring participation in physical activity.

For more information about the Newcastle United Foundation and programmes near you, follow Newcastle United Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and X for regular news and updates.