Julian Nagelsmann defends Nick Woltemade amid Newcastle criticism
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Woltemade, who joined Newcastle in a £69 million move from VfB Stuttgart last summer, has endured a difficult spell in 2026, scoring just once in 19 appearances after an impressive start to life in England.
Despite his dip in form and reduced playing time, the 24-year-old has been named in Germany's squad for upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana.
Key takeaways
- Nagelsmann defends Woltemade despite struggles at Newcastle.
- Germany boss says forward is playing too deep at club level.
- Woltemade still included in Germany squad for upcoming friendlies.
Nagelsmann questions Newcastle role
Speaking at a press conference, Nagelsmann suggested that Woltemade's positioning at Newcastle is limiting his effectiveness in front of goal.The Germany boss highlighted that the forward has often been deployed in deeper roles, even operating in midfield, which places him too far from goal to make a meaningful impact.
He has often played very deep. When he has to defend as a double pivot, it's quite a long way for Nick to cover.Nagelsmann added that he intends to use Woltemade much closer to goal in the national team setup, where he believes the forward can be far more dangerous.
If he wants to get towards goal, it's very unlikely he will score because he's not a counter-attacking striker who can sprint at 36 km/h to outrun the opponent.
And then if he's 80 metres away from the goal, you can't expect him to score 20 goals because the distance is simply too far.
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Read This Next →Backing the player, not criticising the club
Whilst questioning the tactical role, Nagelsmann was careful not to directly criticise Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.Instead, he emphasised that his focus is on evaluating Woltemade within Germany's system and giving him the confidence to rediscover his best form.
He can play from the start but he can also play a good role as a substitute. He has an unorthodox playing style with his size and technique.
I think if you look at his record with us, he has very good memories with the national team.
Limited minutes at club level
Woltemade has also found opportunities harder to come by in recent weeks, with Anthony Gordon being used as Newcastle's striker in some matches.The forward was left out of the starting line-up for Newcastle's Champions League last-16 ties against Barcelona this month, adding to the sense that his club situation has become unsettled.
He's not currently a striker in the squad, and he sits out the last two top games.
Eddie Howe has obviously decided, without me knowing any more details, to simple swap his strikers and that's his right. He should do it as he wants and what he thinks is right.
A difficult period but faith remains
Nagelsmann also spoke highly of Woltemade's character, describing him as a positive presence within the squad despite the challenges he is facing.I think very highly of him as a person. He is a very pleasant person with a strong presence.The Germany coach acknowledged that adapting to a new league, culture and environment can take time, pointing to the player's previous development at Stuttgart as evidence of his ability to bounce back.
He's undoubtedly had a difficult time at Newcastle, but that's normal.
I have total trust in him. Everything will be alright.
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Shop Featured Deals (Fast Checkout)Opportunity on the international stage
With Germany preparing for friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana, Woltemade now has an opportunity to rebuild confidence on the international stage.Nagelsmann's backing suggests the forward remains a key part of his plans, provided he is used in a role that maximises his strengths.
For Woltemade, the upcoming fixtures could prove crucial in reigniting his form, and silencing growing criticism from his time in the Premier League.
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