Newcastle Striker Woltemade Impresses Amid Criticism After Record Transfer

Nick Woltemade, Newcastle United's record signing from VfB Stuttgart, has been praised by manager Eddie Howe after scoring in a 4-0 Champions League victory over Union Saint-Gilloise. Despite criticism from Bayern Munich board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who called Newcastle "idiots" for paying a high transfer fee, Howe defended the signing, emphasizing Woltemade's potential and eagerness to improve. Woltemade's impact includes being the first Newcastle player to score on both his first Premier League start and first Champions League start. Howe highlighted Woltemade's willingness to take responsibility, including his interest in taking penalties, which reflects his ambition as a striker. Woltemade's father, Tim Woltemade, a former footballer and lifelong VfB Stuttgart fan, played a significant role in nurturing his son's football career, instilling passion and discipline. Newcastle's management remains confident in Woltemade's development and contribution to the team despite the transfer fee controversy.