German football legend Lothar Matthäus has called for patience with Newcastle United’s rising star, Nick Woltemade.
While the young striker has made a strong impression in the Premier League, Matthäus believes it’s far too early to compare him with the likes of Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking to beIN Sports, the former World Cup winner stressed that Woltemade’s development should be measured with realism rather than hype.
Matthäus noted that despite Woltemade’s early success at St James’ Park, he still lacks the experience to lead Germany’s attack at the 2026 World Cup. “Woltemade is a very young player,” he said. “I don’t think he can make a real difference yet.
He can score goals, but he’s just 23 years old and has only had one full season in the Bundesliga before moving to England. Before that, he spent time in the second division or on the bench for Werder Bremen as a teenager.”
The legendary midfielder continued by saying that expectations must remain realistic. “He’s not Messi, he’s not Ronaldo he’s Woltemade,” Matthäus said with a smile.
“I wish him only the best, and I believe he’s intelligent enough to know what he needs to do to improve. He has the talent and attitude to help Germany in the future, to help Newcastle right now, and to become a real star in German football.”
Woltemade joined Newcastle United this summer for a reported £69 million after Bayern Munich failed to land him. The 23-year-old has wasted no time making an impact, scoring three goals in his first four Premier League appearances and adding another in two Champions League outings.
His combination of strength, movement, and technical ability has already made him a key player under Eddie Howe.
While Matthäus’ words serve as a caution against unrealistic expectations, German media have been full of praise for the young forward’s early displays in England.
Many see him as a promising long-term option for the national team if he continues his current form. Though perhaps not ready to lead Germany just yet, Woltemade’s rapid rise at Newcastle suggests he could soon become one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers.
At just 23, Woltemade’s story is only beginning and if he keeps improving at this pace, it won’t be long before his name is mentioned among the elite.
