Newcastle’s summer signing delivered a reminder of his quality with a scintillating showing against Liverpool on Sunday.
Wissa, 29, produced a man-of-the-match performance in the Magpies’ first fixture of the 2026/27 campaign, providing the assist for Joe Willock’s goal as Eddie Howe’s side settled for a 2-2 stalemate at St James’ Park.
The Congolese forward covered an enormous amount of ground in a non-stop display, finally resembling the player Newcastle splashed out £55million to lure from Brentford twelve months previously.
The forward endured a difficult maiden season on Tyneside, suffering a knee problem shortly after his arrival that kept him sidelined for three months. That rehabilitation process, combined with an interrupted pre-season programme, hampered his attempts to make an immediate impression at his new club.
He managed only three goals during his first season in the north east, a stark contrast to the 20 he had netted for the Bees the previous term. However, he found the net three times for his national side during the World Cup over the summer.
That international tournament success appeared to restore his confidence, and he carried that form into pre-season training, notching twice during a victory against Valencia earlier this month. Those preparations translated seamlessly into Sunday’s competitive opener.
The forward has consistently spoken of his determination to win over the Newcastle supporters, and that ambition was evident when he spoke to journalists after the draw. He explained that his time at the club has been fraught with difficulty, but insisted those struggles are now behind him.
His body is feeling strong again, and Sunday’s contribution demonstrated his desire to remain at the club. He acknowledged the challenge has tested him both physically and mentally, crediting the World Cup with helping him rediscover his self-belief and comfort in his own body.
The opening pre-season weeks have been particularly encouraging for him, which explained his evident delight following Sunday’s display.
When he was withdrawn during added time, supporters in every stand rose to their feet in appreciation, and the forward could barely contain his emotion when describing that reception after such a demanding first year at the club.
He expressed how much he had longed to experience such a reception and how he savoured every second of his 94-minute contribution from kick-off to the final whistle.
He admitted disappointment that Liverpool were awarded a spot kick in the closing stages, explaining he had been eager to celebrate with the home crowd as they had deserved to take all three points. He thanked both the supporters and his teammates for their backing throughout what he described as an unforgettable afternoon.
He recognised the difficulty of performing at the highest level when not fully fit, but praised the club for their continued support throughout his recovery. Everyone at the club had encouraged him to deliver his best, and Sunday’s performance represented his way of repaying that faith.
With the campaign now underway following this battling point against Liverpool, there is considerable optimism about what lies ahead. The display proved they enter the new season in positive spirits.