Newcastle United's club record signing Nick Woltemade plays more like a centre-half than a forward at times, according to former Magpies assistant manager Iain Dowie, who insists the German must score more goals this season.
Dowie's verdict on Woltemade's role
Woltemade scored 11 goals in his first season on Tyneside, but only two came in 2026 when he was deployed as a midfielder or number 10 rather than as a centre-forward. The 24-year-old started as a number 10 in new manager Matthias Jaissle's 4-2-3-1 system in Saturday's 2-1 friendly win over Valencia.
Although Jaissle confirmed Woltemade remains in consideration for a number of roles, Will Osula and Yoane Wissa look set to be his preferred choices up front. Given the debate over the German international's best position last season, this term feels like a big campaign to nail down how Woltemade best complements Newcastle.
'Bucket load more goals' needed
Regardless, Dowie wants to see Woltemade score a 'bucket load more goals than he did last year' in his second season. "Sometimes Nick Woltemade plays a bit more like a centre half to be honest, I think he's a very clever player," Dowie told BettingLounge.
"I don't think we should ever have boxed him in as just being the big man in the box because that's not his game. He’s much better when he’s involved in the play, he likes to drop into pockets to get on the ball. I think that didn’t quite work for him last year, he wasn't involved enough. He’s similar to how Harry Kane operates when he drops off for England, a good passer and a clinical finisher."
Concerns over Newcastle's rebuild
"His record stands up, though I’d like to see him score a bucket load more goals than he did last year. Is he an out-and-out number nine? I think he can be, but we need to see him running in behind, which Newcastle didn't quite get from him last season," Dowie added.
"He didn't quite hit his peak last year, though I rate him highly. It’s going to be an interesting season for him, especially given the situation at Newcastle. Players are exiting left, right and centre, which is a real worry for such a massive football club. If things continue the way they are going, it's going to be very difficult for Newcastle to rebuild. You look at players like Anthony Gordon moving to Barcelona Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal - it’s a bit sad to see."
Dowie believes Woltemade should stay: "I don’t think Woltemade should leave, I think he needs to give it time. He’s only been there a short while, so he deserves a bit of patience. They’re making a few signings, and if they can build some momentum, he could really kick on and have a great season. The only concern is the step up in class for their new manager, it’s a big challenge for him but I wish him the best."
