Newcastle United say the Sela weekender will create an atmospheric buzz to the city
The club expects large crowds as the Sela Cup returns for a second year this weekend
Newcastle United play three games this weekend, with the men's team playing twice and the women in action once, as part of the club's Sela Weekender.
European teams Girona FC, Stade Brestois and AC Milan women will visit St James' Park, with the games expected to attract large crowds as fans return for the first time since May.
Peter Silverstone, Newcastle United's Chief Commercial Officer, said: "I'm excited the season is starting and this is our curtain raiser at St James' Park, to bring European teams to the club and let fans see their beloved team again ahead of what will be another incredible rollercoaster Premier League season.
"That brings the buzz of the Newcastle United weekend, obviously renowned as one of the most atmospheric stadiums in the whole of the UK and Europe and it gives that opportunity for people to come to the stadium and that weekend buzz that there always is."
Newcastle United hope that the cup's return this year can help attract some new visitors to St James' Park, with tickets being more readily available than league games.
Peter Silverstone said: "Friendly matches or matches like the Sela Weekender, give an opportunity to some fans who don't get into the stadium on a week by week basis because unfortunately or fortunately we have a huge demand for tickets which means some of our fans are left disappointed.
"This gives that opportunity for fans to come and see the team on a Friday night or Saturday during the day.
"We want as many fans to come and cheer on effectively two games to ensure that they're ready and prepared and excited for Southampton on a week on saturday."
However this year's weekender adds a third game, with Newcastle United Women in action as well, after a string of successful appearances for them at St James' Park last season.
Fans heading to Saturday's games are able to get into both games with one ticket, with hopes that it may entice fans who have never attended women's games before.
Peter Silverstone said: "There are some fans coming who haven't been to a women's game before and who are coming to watch the men's team play against Brest.
"They will join to see a top quality game in Newcastle United Women against AC Milan. Hopefully we will convert or entice them to come and watch more women's games either at Kingston Park or at St James' Park where we will definitely have more games next season"
The Sela weekender serves as Newcastle's last set of friendly matches this year, with the Premier League season starting next weekend with a home match against Southampton.