Jamie Carragher has launched a furious defence of Newcastle United's young hero Nick Woltermade after Bayern Munich's honorary president Uli Hoeness dismissed the teenager's potential signing as a "joke".
The Liverpool legend didn't hold back in his criticism of the German club chief, branding his comments "disrespectful" and "out of order" following Woltermade's dramatic Champions League debut.
The Incident That Sparked the Fury
Hoeness caused controversy when discussing Bayern's transfer strategy, specifically referencing Newcastle's 18-year-old forward: "We're not going to sign someone like Woltermade from Newcastle - that would be a joke."
These remarks came just days after the German teenager came off the bench to score a stunning 93rd-minute equaliser against Bayern Munich, salvaging a crucial point for the Magpies in their Champions League group stage encounter.
Carragher's Fiery Response
The Sky Sports pundit took to social media to express his outrage, writing: "How disrespectful from the Bayern Munich president! This young kid comes on for Newcastle against one of the biggest clubs in world football and scores to make it 2-2."
"To then come out and call him a 'joke' is completely out of order. What a moment for the young man making his debut in the Champions League."
Rising Star's Dream Debut
Woltermade's introduction to European football couldn't have been more dramatic. The young German, who joined Newcastle's academy in 2022, made his first Champions League appearance in the dying moments against his homeland giants.
His last-gasp header sent St James' Park into raptures and earned Eddie Howe's side a valuable point against the German champions.
Football Community Backs Carragher
The football world has largely sided with Carragher's view, with many fans and pundits labelling Hoeness's comments as unnecessary and classless.
Several former professionals have pointed out that such public dismissals of young players contradict football's values of respect and sportsmanship.
As the debate continues, Woltermade's stock continues to rise on Tyneside, with the young forward now cemented as an instant hero among the Newcastle faithful.
