Newcastle United duo Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw have issued statements following Germany’s surprise World Cup exit.

Newcastle United pair Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw suffered a surprise early exit from the 2026 World Cup as Germany were knocked out on penalties.

Germany’s first-ever penalty shootout defeat at a World Cup came at the hands of South American underdogs Paraguay.

Both Thiaw and Woltemade got on the pitch during the match, with the latter missing a penalty in the shootout.

Despite Woltemade playing a key role in Germany’s qualifying campaign, he was an unused substitute in Germany’s three group stage matches before he came off the bench against Paraguay. Thiaw came off the bench in the 2-1 group stage defeat to Ecuador before being substituted on in the last-32 knockout match.

Germany’s defeat marked the third successive tournament since being crowned winners in 2014 that they have failed to reach the last-16.

It also marked the second penalty shootout miss for Woltemade in 2026 after his failed attempt in Newcastle’s FA Cup shootout win over AFC Bournemouth back in January.

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Reflecting on Germany’s World Cup exit, Woltemade wrote on Instagram: “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!”

Thiaw played 54 times for Newcastle in 2025/26 before seeing his campaign stretch into the summer with Germany at the World Cup.

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After his country’s exit, the 24-year-old defender wrote on Instagram: “It’s tough to find the words right now. We are all deeply devastated. We arrived with massive ambitions and high hopes, so bowing out like this truly stings. That said, making my World Cup debut and wearing the Germany shirt on the global stage was a massive honour— something I’ll always be grateful for.

“To the fans who backed us both in the stands and from afar: Thank you. Your incredible energy and belief meant everything to the squad. We know we let a lot of people down, and that's a bitter pill to swallow.

“We feel that pain just as acutely because representing this country comes with immense pride and responsibility. Thank you for standing by us."

Both Woltemade and Thiaw will be given an extended break before returning to Newcastle in pre-season.

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