Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa has suffered a major setback before making his debut at St James’ Park. Signed for £55 million from Brentford on deadline day, the Congolese forward picked up a knee injury while on international duty, leaving manager Eddie Howe frustrated and the club short of attacking options.
Yoane Wissa Injury Update from Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe confirmed that Newcastle United were powerless to stop Wissa’s injury, as it occurred while he was playing for the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite missing the entire summer with no minutes played, Wissa was used heavily by his national team — scoring against South Sudan and Senegal in back-to-back fixtures.
The 29-year-old has since missed matches against Wolves and Barcelona. He is expected to be sidelined for at least seven Newcastle fixtures and will also miss DR Congo’s World Cup qualifiers against Togo and Sudan.
Wissa’s Return Date Remains Uncertain
Newcastle are hoping Wissa will recover in time for the Premier League clash against Brighton on October 18, but Howe admitted his fitness will be “touch and go.” The manager stressed that the club did everything possible to protect their new signing, but international duty left them with no control over his workload.
Howe explained:
“Of course, everyone wanted Yoane to be fit. We did everything we could as a club to look after him, but when players go on international duty, you don’t control the minutes they play. Unfortunately, he got injured, and now we must deal with it.”
Nick Woltemade to Lead Newcastle Attack
In Wissa’s absence, Nick Woltemade, the club’s record £69 million signing, will be the main striking option. The German forward scored on his Premier League debut against Wolves but was rested in the Barcelona fixture to manage his fitness.
Howe revealed that Woltemade will likely start against Bournemouth, though he warned fans not to expect him to feature in every game as the striker adjusts to the demands of English football.
“We’re going to have to look after Nick. It’s tough to adapt to a new league, especially with the physical intensity. He’s made a very good start, and hopefully, we can keep him fit.”
What’s Next for Newcastle United?
With Anthony Gordon suspended and Yoane Wissa out injured, Newcastle United’s attacking depth will be tested in the coming weeks. Howe will need to balance his squad carefully as the Magpies push forward in the Premier League and European competitions.
Supporters will be eagerly awaiting Wissa’s recovery, with October 18 circled as a potential date for his long-awaited debut.
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