Newcastle's Nick Woltemade Scores Twice in First Three Games as Champions League Returns
Newcastle United returned to the Champions League stage after a year's absence, falling to Barcelona in their opening match. Meanwhile, new signing Nick Woltemade has made an impressive start to his Premier League career, scoring two goals in his first three appearances. Manager Eddie Howe has warned that Newcastle's next opponents, Union Saint-Gilloise, should not be underestimated despite their smaller stature.
Woltemade, who joined Newcastle from Stuttgart on deadline day, replacing Alexander Isak who moved to Liverpool, is expected to make his first Champions League start against Union Saint-Gilloise. Howe, who orchestrated the record-breaking transfer, is confident in Woltemade's abilities, stating that the striker is not one to overthink things, a trait that Howe believes will serve him well in the high-pressure environment of the Champions League.
Woltemade's quick integration into the Newcastle squad has been notable. He has scored two goals in his first three Premier League appearances, demonstrating his threat in front of goal. This form has not gone unnoticed, with Bayern Munich also expressing interest in the striker. However, Newcastle's offer proved too tempting for Woltemade, who chose to join the Magpies instead.
Howe has dismissed criticism from former Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who suggested that Newcastle had overpaid for Woltemade. Howe believes that the player's performances so far have justified the club's investment.
Nick Woltemade's early form has given Newcastle fans much to be excited about as they prepare for their second Champions League match against Union Saint-Gilloise. Despite the criticism from some quarters, Eddie Howe's faith in his new signing appears to be well-placed, with Woltemade set to play a significant role in Newcastle's Champions League campaign.