Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe hailed Nick Woltemade’s “great start” after the German striker marked his debut with a match-winning goal at St James’ Park.
Signed for £69 million as a replacement for Alexander Isak, who departed for Liverpool in a blockbuster £125m deal, the 23-year-old answered the pressure in emphatic fashion.
Woltemade rose highest in the 29th minute to power home Jacob Murphy’s cross, delivering the only goal in a vital 1-0 Premier League victory.
The Gallowgate End erupted as Woltemade celebrated in front of 52,145 roaring fans. Chants of his name echoed through Tyneside, with supporters sensing the arrival of a new talisman to lead the Toon Army’s charge this season.
After full-time, Howe could not hide his delight.
“It was a great moment for Nick. I was very pleased with how he played today. You saw his technical qualities and his intelligence, but most importantly for a striker, when the ball comes into the box, you need to be there—and he was,” Howe said.
“It was a great finish. I’m really pleased for him personally because that just settles him down and relaxes him. He’s a very humble guy, he wants to do well and he’s delighted to be here. I think it’s a great start.”
While Woltemade stole the headlines, Sandro Tonali put in a tireless shift in midfield. The Italian anchored Newcastle’s play with relentless energy, breaking up attacks, recycling possession, and driving the team forward in a performance that proved vital as the Magpies held on for their first league win of the campaign.
Attention now turns to Thursday night, when Newcastle face Barcelona in the Champions League at St James’ Park. For Woltemade, it will be his first taste of Europe’s biggest stage—a chance to build on his dream debut and cement his place as the Magpies’ new hero.
