Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle has acknowledged that Nick Woltemade failed to reach his complete capabilities during his debut campaign at St James’ Park.
However, the German manager stated his intention to help his fellow countryman move nearer to achieving his maximum ability, working alongside the ex-Al-Ahli and RB Salzburg boss.
Woltemade arrived on Tyneside from Stuttgart last summer in a club-record £69million deal. The German international began his Newcastle career in spectacular fashion, netting nine times within his first three months at the club.
The scoring form evaporated during the latter half of the campaign, however, leading to questions about whether Woltemade’s more unhurried approach was compatible with Newcastle’s demanding style under Eddie Howe.
Jaissle has openly discussed his desire for his Newcastle team to adopt a comparable aggressive pressing game and expects his squad to press opponents intensely from the front.
Integrating Woltemade effectively into this system represents a key challenge, though Jaissle maintains the adjustment will require patience and time to yield results this season.
The Austrian coach addressed reporters ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League match against Liverpool at St James’ Park, stating Woltemade possesses tremendous ability and is an excellent footballer, acknowledging he probably did not reach his full ceiling, but the coaching staff are dedicated to helping all their players progress toward their optimal level, which requires time and often involves adaptation, given the numerous tactical elements involved.
A significant question surrounding Woltemade’s first season involved his ideal playing position. He commenced the term as a striker, then operated in midfield for three months, before finishing the campaign in a number 10 role.
Under Jaissle during pre-season, Woltemade has featured both as a number 10 and number nine, though the Newcastle manager declined to specify his preferred position when pressed on the matter.
Jaissle remarked that Woltemade is adaptable in attacking areas, noting that due to his physical stature he could potentially operate as a central defender, though this remains firmly off the table. He is very much an attacking player who relies on his instincts, and solutions will be found to place him optimally. The selection also depends on identifying suitable partners alongside him.