🔗 Share this article

The English squad will embark on their 2028 European Championship campaign at the Etihad Stadium, on the condition that they attain the anticipated passage for a tournament staged throughout the bulk of Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

Manchester City’s home ground has not staged an England men’s fixture since May 2016, when the visitors were beaten 2-1 in a exhibition match, but is almost certain to stage the England side for their inaugural game on June 10, 2028.

England are planned to play their final two group matches at the national stadium, but, if they top the preliminary round, their knockout stage opener would occur at St James’ Park. Securing the runner-up spot would mean beginning the playoffs at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Competition Kickoff and Demonstration

The event was unveiled at an gathering in central London on the previous evening. High-ranking officials from European football’s governing body and the host football associations were confronted as they entered the site by about 50 activists, who urged Israel’s national side to be expelled from global football because of the Gaza crisis.

Signs were displayed with messages saying “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while demonstrators shouted: “Kick Israel out.”

Event Schedule

The inaugural fixture of the tournament will be staged at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a match that will involve the Dragons if they secure a place.

Wembley Stadium will host the two semi-final matches and the title decider, which will be played on July 9, 2028 with a kick-off time at 5:00 PM.

It is expected that an earlier start, which will also be used for European club finals from the upcoming season, will cater to households and help engage a broader range of fans.

Participating Countries

The Republic of Ireland are due to play their opening match at the Dublin stadium and the Tartan Army would play similarly at Glasgow’s Hampden Park.

All four host countries’ teams will enter the preliminary stage; two guaranteed slots will be held in reserve for any that do not reach Euro 2028 through that route.

Venues and Playoffs

Villa Park and The North London arena round out the nine host stadiums. All will hold at least one elimination game, with the last eight played at every host’s main arena.

The qualification draw will be staged in the Northern Irish capital, which was excluded as a host city last year when it emerged the proposed venue could not be renovated in time, on 6 December 2026.

Tournament Vision

“This will be a tournament for the supporters and a showcase of everything we love about the sport – its fervor and capacity to unite individuals.”

In excess of three million admissions, a unprecedented number for a Euro tournament, are expected to be offered to attendees.