A scathing analysis from the manager’s close associate suggests that Newcastle United are weighing up a swift sale of Nick Woltemade

The newspaper itemises Woltemade’s alleged weaknesses: the German international is deemed too slow, not a natural finisher, poor in controlling the ball, ineffectual from distance and inconsistent in the air. 

The piece has sparked controversy because its author, Luke Edwards, is seen as a confidant of Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. Once the article appeared, Woltemade removed any mention of his club from his Instagram bio. 

Despite significant investment last summer, the Magpies are having a disappointing season, currently sitting in 14th place in the Premier League. Woltemade himself started strongly, scoring goals in both the league and the Champions League. In recent weeks, however, he has struggled—partly because Howe is no longer deploying him as a striker but instead in midfield, a position that feels unfamiliar to the German. 

In Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal, he once again entered as a substitute. Nevertheless, Howe was quick to defend his approach, telling reporters, “His creativity is his strength; he has a very special talent in that regard. If he plays like he did today, he’ll get much more playing time and opportunities to impress.”