As our series profiling Newport County’s 2025-26 League Two opponents continues, we take a closer look at Cambridge United who return to the division following relegation from League One last season.
After spending three seasons in the third tier, the U’s are now aiming to regroup and push for a swift return to League One.
A Brief History
Founded in 1912, Cambridge United have enjoyed some memorable moments across their history, including a remarkable run to the FA Cup quarter-finals in 1990.
The club gained Football League status in 1970 and reached their peak in the early 1990s, briefly knocking on the door of the top flight.
After dropping into the Conference in 2005, Cambridge rebuilt and returned to the Football League in 2014. They achieved promotion to League One in 2021 and remained there until their relegation at the end of the 2024-2026 campaign.
Ahead of the new season, the club has also undergone a rebrand, sporting a fresh new logo to mark a new chapter in their history.
Who’s the Boss?
Neil Harris brings a wealth of Football League and Championship experience to Cambridge United’s dugout. The former striker turned manager took charge midway through last season to steady the club following their relegation battle.
Harris is well known for his time managing Millwall between 2015 and 2019, where he earned promotion from League One to the Championship via the play-offs in 2017. He later had a brief spell managing Cardiff City in the Championship during the 2021–22 season, further demonstrating his ability to compete at a high level.
His managerial style combines motivational man-management with tactical flexibility, often emphasising solid defensive organisation alongside quick attacking transitions. Harris’ experience in navigating the challenges of both promotion chases and relegation battles will be vital as he aims to lead Cambridge back to League One.
Key Players
Cambridge United’s squad boasts some influential figures crucial to their ambitions for the 2025-26 season.
Elias Kachunga is an experienced forward known for his creativity and goal threat. Having played in the Bundesliga as well as the Championship and League One, his quality and ability to unlock defences will be vital in Cambridge’s push for promotion.
Kelland Watts is a solid defensive presence and a Newcastle United academy graduate. After several loan spells, he signed a contract with Cambridge United in 2024. Watts has also represented England at youth level, bringing valuable experience and composure to the back line.
On the flanks, James Brophy combines work rate and delivery, offering width and service from wide areas. His energy and crossing ability add a valuable attacking dimension.
Together, these players form the core of a side eager to bounce back and challenge strongly next season.
The Stadium
Cambridge United play their home matches at the Cledara Abbey Stadium, a ground they have called home since 1932. The stadium, formerly known as The Abbey Stadium, was renamed ahead of the 2024/25 season following a new partnership with Cledara.
Located to the east of Cambridge city centre, the ground has a capacity of just over 8,000 and is well known for its close, atmospheric feel. The Newmarket Road End, in particular, is where the club’s most vocal supporters gather, helping to create a lively matchday experience.
The stadium has seen various upgrades in recent years, with improvements to fan facilities and accessibility, but it has retained its traditional character and strong community feel. The Abbey remains a special part of Cambridge United’s identity and continues to be a central meeting place for supporters on matchdays.
Head to Head Record
Newport County and Cambridge United have shared some tightly contested battles over the years, reflecting the competitive spirit of League Two. The encounters have often been closely fought affairs, with both sides having periods of dominance.
Most recently, the two clubs faced each other during the 2020–21 League Two season, which marked Cambridge’s final campaign before securing promotion to League One.
In total, the sides have met 17 times between 2014 and 2021. Newport County have come out on top in seven of these encounters, while Cambridge United have edged slightly ahead with eight victories. The remaining two matches finished as draws, underscoring how closely matched these clubs have been on the pitch.
Last Time Out
The last competitive fixture between the two sides came in April 2021, where Cambridge United edged a 1-0 win at Rodney Parade during their promotion push.
Newport County will be looking to write a different story when the two clubs meet again in the 2025-26 campaign, with fixtures set to be released on June 26.
Missed our previous spotlights? Check out our features on Barnet, Oldham Athletic, and Crawley Town.