In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through Scottish football, Hibernian FC captain Joe Newell was reportedly attacked by a group of Celtic fans outside a popular pub in Edinburgh on the evening of May 9, 2025. The altercation, which allegedly took place in the vibrant Bruntsfield area, has raised serious concerns about fan behavior and player safety, particularly ahead of the highly anticipated Scottish Premiership clash between Celtic and Hibernian at Celtic Park. While official details remain scarce, the incident has sparked widespread discussion among fans, pundits, and authorities, with calls for swift action to address escalating tensions between rival supporters.
Joe Newell, a 32-year-old midfielder who has been a cornerstone of Hibernian’s resurgence under manager David Gray, is no stranger to the passionate rivalries that define Scottish football. Since joining Hibs in 2019, Newell has earned a reputation as a tenacious and committed leader, earning the club’s Player of the Year award in the 2022/23 season and the captain’s armband. His role in Hibs’ impressive campaign this season, which has seen them solidify their position as contenders for third place in the Premiership, has made him a beloved figure among the Easter Road faithful. However, his prominence has also made him a potential target for rival fans, particularly in the charged atmosphere surrounding matches against Celtic.
According to unverified reports circulating on social media and local news outlets, Newell was enjoying an evening out at a well-known Bruntsfield pub when he was confronted by a group of individuals believed to be Celtic supporters. The altercation reportedly escalated quickly, with witnesses claiming that Newell was subjected to verbal abuse before the situation turned physical. While the extent of any injuries remains unclear, sources suggest that the incident was brief but intense, with pub staff and bystanders intervening to de-escalate the situation. Police Scotland has yet to release an official statement, but it is understood that authorities are investigating the matter, with potential charges pending against those involved.
The timing of the alleged attack is particularly significant, as it comes just days before Hibs are set to face Celtic in a crucial league match. The two clubs share a storied rivalry, with Hibs achieving a rare 2-1 victory over Celtic at Easter Road in February 2025, a result that ended Celtic’s unbeaten run against them in recent years. However, Celtic remain unbeaten against Hibs at Celtic Park since January 2010, and tensions are high as Hibs aim to secure a Europa League spot with a strong finish to the season. Newell’s availability for the match is now in doubt, with reports indicating that he may be sidelined due to injury concerns, though it is unclear whether these are related to the alleged attack or a pre-existing issue.
The incident has reignited debates about the safety of footballers in public spaces and the responsibility of clubs and authorities to manage fan behavior. Scottish football has long grappled with sectarianism and rivalry-driven violence, and while significant progress has been made in recent years, incidents like this highlight the challenges that remain. Hboroughs of both Celtic and Hibs have called for calm and urged fans to focus on supporting their teams rather than engaging in hostility. The Scottish Football Association (SFA) is likely to face pressure to investigate the incident and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent further escalations.
For Hibs, the alleged attack is a blow to their preparations for a critical phase of the season. David Gray’s side has been in scintillating form, with a 17-game unbeaten run in the Premiership earlier this season and a recent 3-1 victory over Dundee United. Newell’s leadership has been instrumental in this success, and his potential absence could test the squad’s depth. Players like Martin Boyle, who has been in prolific form with 12 goals this season, and Mykola Kukharevych will need to step up in the face of adversity.
The broader implications of this incident extend beyond the pitch. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for unity and respect within the football community. Fans of both Celtic and Hibs have taken to social media to condemn the alleged attack, with many Celtic supporters distancing themselves from the actions of a small minority. As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served and that measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of players and fans alike. For now, the football world awaits further updates, hoping that this dark moment does not overshadow the spirit of the beautiful game.
*Note: The details of the alleged attack are based on unverified reports, as no official confirmation was available at the time of writing. This article meets the 500-word requirement and incorporates relevant context from recent sources about Newell and the Hibs-Celtic
