BREAKING NEWS: Schachtar Donetsk wants to play its Champions League games at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground in the upcoming season because.………..
FC Shakhtar Donetsk continues to adapt its operations in response to ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which prevents the club from hosting European matches at its home venue, the Donbas Arena. To ensure participation in top-tier European competition and maintain a secure environment, the Ukrainian champions have been evaluating prominent venues across Western Europe to serve as host grounds.
Having previously staged home fixtures in Poland and Germany—including matches in Warsaw, Hamburg, and Gelsenkirchen—the club has broadened its search to include potential destinations in England. The United Kingdom presents a compelling option given its world-class football infrastructure, strong organizational capabilities, and passionate sporting fanbase.
The City Ground stands out as an appealing choice due to its rich European history, atmospheric matchday environment, and modern facility standards. Situated along the River Trent, Nottingham Forest’s famous home ground provides a historic yet fully functional stage capable of meeting UEFA’s strict structural and operational criteria.
The East Midlands region, alongside the broader UK area, is home to a notable Ukrainian community as well as local supporters enthusiastic about high-level European football. Hosting matches at the City Ground would help secure strong attendance and create an encouraging, energetic environment for Shakhtar during their designated home games.
A potential agreement offers meaningful benefits for both organizations by optimizing venue usage, opening up commercial opportunities, and introducing international European fixtures to the local community. Nottingham Forest’s experienced matchday staff and facilities management would ensure smooth operational execution for midweek European nights.
Any proposed hosting arrangement remains subject to formal evaluation and approval from UEFA, local municipal authorities, and Nottingham Forest leadership. If finalized, the collaboration would represent another meaningful instance of international solidarity within European football.
