Nick Woltemade’s deadline-day move from Newcastle United to Juventus reportedly developed after concerns over his role under new manager Matthias Jaissle.
The 24-year-old joined Juventus on a season-long loan despite featuring for Newcastle during the opening weeks of the campaign.
Previous suggestions that Woltemade and his representatives were pushing for an exit had been dismissed. However, SportBild now reports that Newcastle’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool on August 23 played an important role in changing the situation.
Jaissle decision angered Woltemade camp
The Liverpool match was Jaissle’s first competitive game since replacing Eddie Howe, and Woltemade was left on the bench.
According to SportBild, that decision “angered” the striker and his entourage.
There were also concerns about Newcastle’s playing style. Woltemade was reportedly surprised by the number of long balls used under Jaissle and began questioning whether he would have an important role in the new system.
Newcastle attempted 56 long passes against Liverpool, completing only 28% of them.
The concerns came despite Woltemade subsequently playing 90 minutes against West Bromwich Albion in the EFL Cup and appearing from the bench in the 2-0 Premier League victory over Tottenham.
Newcastle ultimately pushed Juventus loan
The report suggests Newcastle also had doubts over Woltemade’s immediate place in Jaissle’s plans.
The new manager believed there were areas of the German’s game that required improvement, leading Newcastle to look for a suitable temporary destination.
Juventus eventually provided the solution and will reportedly cover Woltemade’s entire €8m-a-year salary during his season-long loan.
His position in Turin will not necessarily be straightforward either.
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti reportedly wants Woltemade to make greater use of his physical attributes and height, particularly in aerial situations and inside the penalty area.
The challenge for Woltemade is now to establish himself in Italy and prove he can deliver the qualities both Newcastle and Juventus believe still need developing.
Key Points
- Nick Woltemade joined Juventus on a season-long loan from Newcastle on deadline day.
- Being benched against Liverpool reportedly angered the striker and his entourage.
- Woltemade also had concerns about the long-ball style introduced under Matthias Jaissle.
- Newcastle ultimately initiated the search for a loan after Jaissle identified areas for improvement.
What’s Next?
Woltemade must now convince Luciano Spalletti he can provide the physical and penalty-box presence Juventus expect. His progress in Turin could also determine where he fits into Jaissle’s longer-term Newcastle plans.
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