As Germany hammered Slovakia to seal their place at the 2026 World Cup, Nick Woltemade will be delighted with his contribution, and the German press have really changed their tune on the Newcastle man.
Germany cruised to a 6-0 win on Monday night, with Nick Woltemade getting the game going with an 18th minute goal.
It was a typical poacher’s goal from Woltemade; his third of the international break after a fine double against Luxembourg on Friday night.
Given his fantastic start to life at Newcastle United and impressive form for his country right now, it’s not surprising that the national press have lavished praise on Woltemade.
But, that’s a far cry from what the German media were saying about the big striker just two months ago.
Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty ImagesNick Woltemade earned awful rating for Slovakia display in September
The 6-0 victory was a huge one for Germany, not only in terms of World Cup qualification, but also in banishing the disappointment of losing to Slovakia back in September.
After that 2-0 defeat, the German press were obviously not happy with the players, and Woltemade got some pretty negative reviews after the game.
BILD did not hold back in their assessment of his performance at the time, writing: “His astronomical transfer value of €85m wasn’t evident against Slovakia. Two weak headers went over and wide of the goal, a couple of botched dribbles, and a seemingly half-hearted pressing style. He only played to the end due to a lack of alternatives.”
Woltemade was given a grade 6 score for his performance, which is actually BILD’s lowest rating.
Meanwhile, BuliNews gave Woltemade a 3 out of 10, writing: “Woltemade started brightly, providing a clever backheel pass to Leon Goretzka, but it proved to be a frustrating evening for Newcastle’s new signing. He couldn’t capitalize on the crosses that came his way and lost possession too often.”
To be fair, Woltemade wasn’t the worst-rated player in the team. Most of the squad got a score of 3, while defenders Antonio Rudiger and Nnamdi Collins picked up a 2.
Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty ImagesConfidence is flowing for Woltemade now
There are obviously big expectations on Woltemade’s shoulders, but he appears to be bearing that weight pretty well right now and the confidence is clearly flowing for the striker.
With five goals for Newcastle and three for Germany this month, he’s every reason to be feeling positive. Woltemade said he feels supported by Newcastle and that the club has faith in him, and it’s obviously paying off.
At this rate, he’s almost certain to be on the plane for the World Cup next summer with Germany, and he’ll be the key to any success Newcastle achieve this season, too.
Stepping into Alexander Isak’s shoes was a big deal, but Woltemade is thriving under that pressure, and long may it continue.