Nick Woltemade’s early months at Newcastle United have been nothing short of impressive, yet a recent twist has temporarily halted his momentum.
Just a day after scoring in Newcastle’s 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest his fourth goal in five starts an official statement confirmed an unexpected setback for the German striker.
The German Football Association (DFB) announced that Woltemade would not be joining the national team due to a flu infection. The timing of the announcement caught many by surprise, especially after his standout performances in the Premier League.
According to the DFB’s Monday release, the Newcastle striker was unable to travel to the German national team’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach.
The statement read: “National team player Nick Woltemade will not be joining the German national team this Monday. The striker for English Premier League club Newcastle United, who scored his third goal for Newcastle in Sunday’s 2-0 home win over Nottingham Forest, will not travel to the national team’s headquarters at DFB partner Adidas in Herzogenaurach due to a flu infection.”
The update brought uncertainty regarding his availability for Germany’s upcoming fixtures and Newcastle’s next matches after the international break.
However, things took another turn when an additional update emerged on Tuesday, suggesting that Woltemade would still join up with the squad later in the week.
The DFB’s follow-up statement clarified: “Nick Woltemade is expected to arrive at the German national team’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach late Tuesday evening. The striker from English Premier League club Newcastle United, who has made four senior appearances so far, was initially unable to travel to the German national team on Monday due to a flu infection.
It remains to be seen when Woltemade will be able to return to team training.” While the striker’s inclusion seemed promising, the uncertainty surrounding his fitness and recovery time left both Germany and Newcastle fans cautious.
For Newcastle, the hope remains that Woltemade can recover swiftly before the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion on October 18.
The 23-year-old has quickly become a crucial part of Eddie Howe’s squad, stepping up in the absence of Yoane Wissa, who has yet to make his debut for the club due to a knee injury sustained while on international duty with DR Congo. Wissa’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, although Howe has hinted that the former Brentford forward could return before the November international break.
Until then, Woltemade has carried the attacking load admirably, demonstrating composure, intelligence, and consistency in front of goal.
Despite early criticism from sections of the German media regarding the transfer fee Newcastle paid to VfB Stuttgart, Woltemade’s performances have silenced doubters.
In just four Premier League appearances, he has netted three goals an outstanding return considering he missed the opening three league games. Among all the summer signings in the league, none have outscored the German forward so far, underlining his immediate impact and value to Howe’s system.
Eddie Howe, known for his man-management and belief in nurturing young talent, has spoken glowingly about the player’s attitude and adaptation.
“We expected a lot from him when we signed him. We believe in him. We believe that he can make the transition from another league to this,” Howe said. “But in saying that, it’s still so difficult to do, with no training, to be thrust straight in.
Hardly knew his teammates’ names, and then he’s playing. And then you’re judged instantly on whether you’re going to be a success or failure. That’s tough.
He’s made such a positive impression around the training ground, with his interactions with staff and with players. Then he’s delivered on the pitch.”
The Newcastle boss also reflected on Woltemade’s latest performance against Nottingham Forest, describing it as possibly his best display yet. “I think [against Nottingham Forest] was arguably his best game.
Not so much first half, but second half, I thought he was all action. He was where he needed to be. He was getting chances to score. And of course, he scored the penalty. So really pleased for him,” Howe added.
As things stand, Newcastle fans will be keeping a close eye on Woltemade’s condition, hoping his flu recovery is swift and smooth. His contribution so far has given supporters plenty to be excited about, and his chemistry with the squad continues to grow.
Should he regain full fitness in time for the next Premier League fixture, the German forward looks poised to continue his fine form and cement his place as one of the standout new arrivals in the league this season.
With his work ethic, composure, and ability to adapt under pressure, Nick Woltemade’s Newcastle journey is only just beginning and it already promises to be a memorable one.
