Eddie Howe Reveals Nick Woltemade Fatigue Problem — Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa Return Nears

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has admitted that record signing Nick Woltemade is showing signs of fatigue after a relentless start to life in the Premier League. The 23-year-old striker has been a revelation since joining the Magpies in the summer, but Howe says the club must now carefully manage his workload — with relief on the way as Yoane Wissa nears a return from injury.

Since arriving from Werder Bremen for a club-record fee, Woltemade has scored six goals in his first ten appearances, quickly endearing himself to the St James’ Park faithful. His form has been even more impressive given that the man he replaced, Alexander Isak, has scored just once since moving to Liverpool. Yet even the most prolific debut seasons come with their challenges, as the German forward learned during Newcastle’s 3–1 defeat to West Ham last Sunday.

Woltemade was surprisingly withdrawn at half-time at the London Stadium, sparking debate among fans. Howe later explained that the substitution was a protective measure rather than a punishment.

“We’re well aware we’ve thrust him into every single game, near enough,” Howe told reporters before Newcastle’s upcoming fixture against Athletic Club. “I thought he looked a little bit fatigued, and taking him off [at West Ham] was a decision I felt would benefit both the team and Nick going forward because he’s carrying a lot of load on his shoulders. If at any stage I feel he is fatigued, I need to act to help him.”

Despite the early change, the result didn’t improve. Replacement striker Will Osula brought energy but couldn’t inspire a comeback. Still, Howe’s decision underlines his commitment to protecting his young talisman from burnout as Newcastle balance domestic and European duties.

Fortunately for Howe, Yoane Wissa is nearing full fitness following a spell on the sidelines with a muscle injury. The 29-year-old, who joined from Brentford in the summer, is expected to return after the international break.

His comeback could allow Howe to rotate more effectively, easing the burden on Woltemade and giving Newcastle greater flexibility up front. Wissa’s pace and movement off the ball provide a different dynamic — one that could complement or alternate with Woltemade depending on the opponent.

In our view, Eddie Howe’s honesty about Woltemade’s fatigue shows smart man-management rather than concern. The German striker’s early success has raised expectations, but Howe knows that managing his physical limits now could prevent a long-term dip in form.

With Wissa’s return imminent, Newcastle’s striker situation finally looks balanced. The pair could even form a dangerous rotation — or a partnership — that gives Howe tactical options heading into the winter schedule. After a heavy workload for key players in recent months, this change could be the refresh Newcastle need to stay competitive on all fronts.

Newcastle face Athletic Club tonight in the Champions League before returning to Premier League action against Brentford on 9 November. If Wissa proves his fitness, Howe may finally have the luxury of rotating his strikers — ensuring Woltemade remains sharp for a demanding winter schedule.

👉 Newcastle fans — should Howe rest Woltemade more often, or let him play through the fatigue while he’s in form?