Nick Woltemade pictured at former club's training ground as Newcastle United absence explained
Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade is currently training at one of his former clubs.
Nick Woltemade has returned to his former club Werder Bremen as he gets ready for the new season with Newcastle United.
Newcastle reported back for pre-season training this week, but Woltemade is among the players to have been given an extended break due to his participation in the World Cup.
Woltemade was an unused substitute in Germany’s three group games before coming off the bench in their last 32 tie against Paraguay. Unfortunately for him, it was a World Cup debut that ended in heartbreak as Germany lost on penalties, with the 24-year-old seeing his spot-kick saved in the shootout.
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Speaking of his pain after the game, Woltemade wrote on social media: “Honestly... The fact that my first World Cup is ending like this hits me hard.
“We have not lived up to our demands and expectations. Now we have to honestly analyse why it didn't work. I wanted to take responsibility, and I took responsibility. But at the same time, that means having to live with the consequences - even if it hurts.
“Thank you for your many uplifting words. This means a lot to me! Together we will rise again!”
Nick Woltemade vows to make his mark at Newcastle United
Not only was it a tough World Cup for Woltemande, but it was also a difficult campaign at Newcastle as manager Eddie Howe struggled to get the best out of the club’s record signing.
Woltemade joined from Stuttgart for £69million last summer and initially hit the ground running with seven goals in his opening 14 starts. However the goals soon dried up, with the player finding the net just twice since the turn of the year.
The German ended the season playing in central midfield or as a number 10, despite being signed as a striker.
“I’m expected to score or provide an assist in every game but if I’m not playing in attack, it’s much more difficult for me to get into dangerous scoring positions,” Woltemade told German magazine Stern last month.
“Of course, I’m not happy with how things have gone in the past few months. Especially since my start at Newcastle was so strong. That raised expectations, including for myself.
“I moved to the Premier League at 23, the best league in the world. I’ve learned a lot this season. I’ve improved athletically, I can keep up with the tremendous pace. I can hold my own in challenges.
“Overall, it’s been a step forward. That’s why I have no doubts about Newcastle. I’ll make my mark there.”
Nick Woltemade training at former club Werder Bremen
Woltemade will hope to the last few months behind him when the new season gets underway and in preparation for a return to Newcastle, he has visited former club Werder Bremen to work on his fitness.
The Bundesliga club uploaded photos of Woltemade training with the caption: “There's no place like home. Nick Woltemade is training in Bremen for a few days during his vacation. Great to have you here @nickwoltemade.”
Woltemade was born and raised in Bremen, making 51 appearances before joining Stuttgart on a free transfer in the summer of 2024.