When Newcastle United sealed a dramatic £55 million deadline-day move for Yoane Wissa from Brentford, excitement filled the air.
Fans imagined the Congolese forward lighting up St James’ Park with his pace, energy, and goals. Yet, weeks later, the anticipation has turned to frustration, as the star signing is yet to make his debut for the club two months into the season.
Shortly after signing, Wissa departed for international duty with DR Congo, where his fortunes took an unfortunate turn.
During training, he suffered a knee injury that initially looked minor but quickly became a cause for concern. Early reports suggested he would return by mid-October, offering a glimmer of hope that his first appearance in black and white would not be too far away.
However, further medical assessments revealed that his recovery would take longer than expected, extending his absence into mid-November.
As uncertainty grew, social media began to swirl with speculation that the forward’s injury might be far more serious than first thought.
Some even feared that Wissa had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, an injury that can rule players out for most of a season.
Thankfully, those fears have been laid to rest. Reliable journalist Craig Hope of The Daily Mail has confirmed that Wissa’s issue involves his posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), not the ACL, meaning surgery will not be required.
According to Hope, the 29-year-old has avoided the worst-case scenario and could make his long-awaited debut as early as November 9th, when Newcastle face his former club Brentford.
That fixture now looms as a poetic opportunity for Wissa to return against the team he left behind. Earlier predictions had pencilled in a comeback for the previous week’s game against West Ham, but medical advice suggests the Brentford match is a more realistic target.
While the news has eased fears of a lengthy layoff, recovery still depends on the swelling around his knee subsiding. Wissa has begun light running on grass a strong indication that progress is steady but the club’s medical staff remain cautious, prioritizing his long-term fitness over rushing him back too soon.
Eddie Howe is believed to be in no hurry, knowing that a fully fit Wissa will be far more valuable for Newcastle’s demanding season across domestic and European competitions.
In Wissa’s absence, Nick Woltemade has stepped up impressively, becoming the main source of goals and proving himself a capable leading man.
Still, supporters can’t wait to see both players share the pitch a combination of pace, flair, and finishing that could redefine Newcastle’s attacking strength once Wissa is back to full health.
There is, however, another looming question. Even if Wissa returns in November, his availability may again be disrupted by international duty.
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is scheduled for late December through January, and DR Congo will count heavily on their talisman to lead them deep into the tournament.
Having reached the semi-finals in the previous edition, Wissa’s presence would be vital if the Leopards are to contend once more.
Interestingly, Craig Hope also notes that Wissa could delay his AFCON participation to remain with Newcastle longer than expected. Sources close to the player suggest he feels a strong sense of responsibility toward the club after their record investment in him.
Missing part of a major international tournament to prove his dedication and help Newcastle maintain momentum in the Premier League and Champions League would be a remarkable gesture of commitment.
Ultimately, all focus now is on ensuring Wissa’s full recovery. His determination to repay Newcastle’s faith, combined with his desire to compete at the highest level, shows the character of a player ready to make an impact.
Once his knee settles and match fitness returns, supporters can finally expect to see the explosive forward they were promised one who could play a decisive role in the club’s ambitions at home and abroad.
For Newcastle, patience may finally be rewarded when Yoane Wissa takes to the field for the first time in November just in time to remind everyone why the club fought so hard to bring him to Tyneside.
