Shay Given Delivers Honest and Encouraging Verdict on Woltemade Following Impressive Newcastle Debut

Former Newcastle United goalkeeper and current pundit Shay Given has shared glowing praise for Nick Woltemade after the German striker made a strong impression during his debut for the Magpies.

The recent summer transfer window was anything but quiet for Newcastle United. Amid a whirlwind of speculation, high-profile rumors, and rising concerns, the club found itself at the center of attention—most notably due to the future of star striker Alexander Isak. After weeks of uncertainty, the Swedish forward made a sensational move to Liverpool in what became the most expensive transfer in British football history. While lucrative, the departure left a gaping hole in Newcastle’s attack that urgently needed filling.

The Magpies spent much of the transfer window scouring the market for a suitable replacement. Their attempts to land big-name targets were repeatedly thwarted, as multiple deals fell through. However, as the window drew to a close, Newcastle successfully secured two major signings up front—Yoane Wissa from Brentford and Nick Woltemade from Bundesliga side Stuttgart. The latter, a 21-year-old German international, arrived amid significant buzz and a hefty price tag nearing £70 million.

Woltemade didn’t take long to showcase his potential. Following the September international break, he was handed his full debut in a home fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers. It was a bold move by manager Eddie Howe, and one that immediately paid off. The towering forward not only led the line effectively but also netted the match-winning goal in a tightly contested 1-0 victory—securing all three points for Newcastle and keeping Wolves winless in the Premier League.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Shay Given, who made over 350 appearances for Newcastle during his illustrious playing career, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm about the club’s new attacking option.

“There was a lot of noise over the summer about who could possibly step into Isak’s shoes,” Given began. “Now, Woltemade looks like he might just be that man. It’s a fantastic start—exactly what he and the fans would have hoped for.”

The Irishman went on to discuss Woltemade’s unique skill set and his ability to blend physical strength with technical flair.

“People are debating whether he’s more of a traditional number nine or more of a number ten. I think he’s got elements of both in his game. What he brings is a real presence. He’s six-foot-six, a proper handful for defenders, but it’s not just about his size. He’s got good feet, intelligence, and you can already see he understands how to link up with the players around him.”

Given also touched on the player’s development potential under Eddie Howe’s coaching staff—who have earned praise for improving individual players, most notably Isak during his spell at St. James’ Park.

“Eddie and his team have a track record of improving players. Look at what they did with Isak—he left the club a much more complete striker. There’s every reason to believe they can do the same with Woltemade. The raw ingredients are there; now it’s about nurturing and fine-tuning them.”

He added with a smile, “It’s not rocket science—get the ball into the box, and with a six-foot-six striker like him waiting, goals will come.”

Indeed, while his physicality is an obvious strength, Woltemade’s debut also highlighted his adaptability to the Premier League’s demanding pace and physical intensity—traits that can often take overseas players time to adjust to. His maturity on the pitch and ability to hold up the ball under pressure suggest that he’s more than just a traditional target man.

It’s also worth noting that before sealing his move to Newcastle, Woltemade had attracted attention from several European heavyweights, including Bayern Munich. His transfer to the Premier League was seen as something of a coup for the Magpies, who managed to convince the player of their long-term project and vision.

While expectations are understandably high given the price tag and the responsibility he inherits in replacing Isak, early signs suggest that Nick Woltemade may well be up to the task. If his debut is anything to go by, Newcastle fans could be witnessing the beginning of a new chapter—one led by a powerful, technically gifted forward capable of leading the line for years to come.

Only time will tell whether he can live up to the billing, but for now, Woltemade’s Premier League career is off to a flying start—and Shay Given, like many supporters, is eager to see what comes next.