Nick Woltemade says he is “incredibly happy” after choosing Newcastle over Bayern

Nick Woltemade wants to make one thing absolutely clear: he loves life at Newcastle United. The German striker has spoken with growing enthusiasm about his move since arriving on deadline day, and his latest interview with SportBILD reinforces just how settled he already feels in the North East.

A year that began with Bayern Munich circling ended with Newcastle stepping in late and paying €80m to secure him as Alexander Isak’s successor. The pressure of replacing a fan favourite could have weighed heavily, but instead Woltemade has embraced the responsibility. Seven goals and two assists in 21 appearances — including his first Champions League goal — show a player adapting quickly to the Premier League’s demands.

For SportBILD, Woltemade was listed as one of 2025’s “winners”, and his reflections explain why. Rather than framing his failed Bayern move as a setback, he described it as a moment that pushed him toward the opportunity he now feels was meant for him.

Speaking with the calm assurance of someone who knows he made the right decision, Woltemade said he has no doubts about the move.

“Everything in life happens for a reason,” he told the newspaper. “The failed Bayern transfer is the perfect example of that. I’m incredibly happy to be in Newcastle now. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have happened at all. In hindsight, I’m glad it turned out this way.”

He recalled being at home in Stuttgart when his agent informed him of Newcastle’s interest. Within hours, Eddie Howe had held a video call with the striker — a conversation that convinced him immediately.

“I was keen right away. Eddie Howe completely convinced me. I felt like: I’m doing it. In the end, everything happened quite quickly.”

The decision has aged well. Woltemade has not only produced goals but integrated seamlessly into the squad, earning his own chant and forming a connection with supporters that many foreign players take years to develop.

One of the striking aspects of Woltemade’s early months is how comfortable he feels living in the North East of England. He has repeatedly compared Newcastle’s culture and rhythm to life in Germany, telling the club’s media he finds it easy to relax, focus and feel at home.

That comfort has translated onto the pitch. His movement, pressing and link play have added new dimensions to Howe’s attack, and his willingness to shoulder the responsibility of replacing Isak has impressed staff and fans alike. Although he acknowledges the pressure is real, he insists it does not concern him: the expectations are part of why he joined.

Woltemade’s positivity stands in contrast to the frustration around Newcastle’s most recent result — a 1–0 derby defeat to Sunderland. As the team prepares for Chelsea this weekend, his mindset and work rate have been highlighted internally as key components of the response.

Having followed Newcastle closely through their recruitment rebuild, Woltemade’s success is no coincidence. He fits Howe’s model: young enough to develop further, intelligent without the ball, technically secure, and capable of linking midfield to attack. His pressing intensity also elevates the front line defensively, an area the club prioritises heavily.

Although some wondered whether he was ready to replace Isak immediately, it’s worth questioning whether his adaptability and character have already exceeded expectations. In our view, Woltemade thrives because he combines physical presence with humility and professionalism. The affection from supporters — including his newly minted song — has only accelerated his integration.

What stands out most is his mindset: grateful, ambitious and unafraid of responsibility.

The defeat to Sunderland was a gut punch, but internally Newcastle see the Chelsea match as a turning point opportunity. Woltemade’s energy and attitude will be vital as they work to respond quickly. With the schedule intensifying, his consistency may determine how Newcastle navigate a demanding stretch of fixtures.

Newcastle host Chelsea this weekend in the Premier League, seeking a response after their derby setback. Woltemade remains central to Howe’s plans and will again lead the line as the club look to regain momentum.

👉 Newcastle fans — is Woltemade already becoming a future club favourite?