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The English squad will embark on their UEFA Euro 2028 adventure at the Manchester City’s stadium, on the condition that they attain the anticipated qualification for a tournament hosted across the majority of the UK and the Irish Republic.

Manchester City’s home ground has not welcomed an English men’s match since May 2016, when the Turkish team were beaten 2-1 in a exhibition match, but is almost certain to stage the Three Lions for their opening fixture on Saturday 10 June 2028.

The team are scheduled to play their final two group matches at the national stadium, but, if they top Group B, their round of 16 match would be held at St James’ Park. Securing the runner-up spot would mean beginning the playoffs at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Tournament Kickoff and Demonstration

The tournament was inaugurated at an ceremony in Piccadilly Circus on the previous evening. High-ranking officials from European football’s governing body and the host FAs were confronted as they approached the location by approximately 50 pro-Palestine demonstrators, who urged the Israeli team to be removed from international football because of the conflict in Gaza.

Signs were raised with slogans stating “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while activists shouted: “Kick Israel out.”

Tournament Timeline

The first match of the tournament will be played at the Cardiff’s stadium in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a match that will involve the Welsh team if they qualify.

Wembley Stadium will host both semi-finals and the title decider, which will be held on Sunday 9 July with a start time at 5pm.

It is hoped that an earlier start, which will also be adopted for UEFA Champions League finals from next season, will appeal to families and help engage a broader range of viewers.

Qualifying Teams

The Ireland are set to play their opening match at the Dublin stadium and Scotland would follow suit at Glasgow’s Hampden Park.

All four host countries’ teams will participate in the preliminary stage; two guaranteed slots will be set aside for any that fail to qualify for Euro 2028 through the qualification path.

Locations and Playoffs

Villa Park and The North London arena round out the nine host stadiums. All will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the last eight staged at each country’s national stadium.

The qualification draw will be staged in Belfast, which was excluded as a tournament location last year when it became clear the proposed venue could not be renovated in time, on a date in late 2026.

Official Statement

“This will be a championship for the supporters and a celebration of everything we love about the sport – its fervor and power to unite individuals.”

In excess of three million passes, a unprecedented number for a UEFA European Championship, are anticipated to be offered to fans.