Nick Woltemade’s Goals Have Dried Up — But His Attitude Shines

Nick Woltemade’s Premier League journey with Newcastle United began in blistering fashion, but the goals have since dried up for the towering 6ft 6in German forward.

After making headlines by scoring six goals with his first six shots on target, including clinical finishes against Arsenal, Wolves, and an audacious backheel at Brighton, expectations soared following his £69m move from Stuttgart in the final days of the summer transfer window.

Yet, the 23-year-old hasn’t scored since December’s 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, where his own goal settled the Wear-Tyne derby. He bounced back instantly with a brace against Chelsea, but has failed to score in his last six appearances.

“He started so well. Everyone expected him to continue… but that’s very difficult to do,” said Eddie Howe, acknowledging the pressure placed on the young forward.

The Mental Strength Behind the Slump

Rather than wilt, Woltemade has remained composed and team-focused. His immediate response to the derby setback was proof of his mental resilience.

While the goals have stalled, his attitude has not. With Yoane Wissa returning from injury and struggling alongside him, and Newcastle’s attack still adjusting after Alexander Isak’s departure to Liverpool, Woltemade has shown admirable maturity.

“Nick has done everything with such a great attitude,” Howe emphasized. “That means he will continue to be successful.”

What’s Behind the Goal Drought?

Several factors have contributed to Woltemade’s dip:

• Limited starts: Just six since his double vs Chelsea.

• Tactical mismatch: Newcastle’s prior system favored a mobile, pressing striker — not Woltemade’s profile.

• Service issues: Newcastle lead the league in total crosses (637) but have a poor 21.5% crossing accuracy.

• Positioning concerns: He thrives with balls to feet in deeper spaces, not as a classic poacher in the box.

Woltemade’s shot average is down to 1.9 per game, and he’s been awarded just four fouls in his last 11 league matches, suggesting defenders have figured out how to limit his impact.

Tactical Adjustments

Howe has experimented with playing Woltemade behind Wissa in a 4-2-3-1, trying to recreate the dribble-link role he excelled in at Stuttgart. While results are still mixed, it may prove to be the most productive approach long-term.

“We’ve not quite functioned fully yet,” Howe admitted of his attacking unit. “But Nick’s attitude is why we remain hopeful.”

With time, tactical tweaks, and support around him, Woltemade may rediscover the form that made him such a devastating presence early in the season.