Malick Thiaw has given his honest verdict on Nick Woltemade’s start to life at Newcastle United.
The Magpies do not have a rich history of German players, but that is starting to change. Two out of the six senior signings Newcastle United made this summer are German, with Nick Woltemade following Malick Thiaw to Tyneside.
There has been a bigger spotlight on the former, with Woltemade arriving for £69million to become Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever.
Given the way he looks, his style of play and the fact he was replacing Alexander Isak, it is easy to understand why there was so much hype surrounding his St James’ Park arrival.
It is hype that he has largely lived up to, scoring six goals so far. However, that does not tell the whole story, with Newcastle struggling to get the best out of Woltemade.
But that is not fazing Thiaw, who is happy to see his fellow countryman thrive in the Premier League.
Malick Thiaw and Nick Woltemade prepare to travel to Brussels for Newcastle United's Champions League game.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Malick Thiaw says Nick Woltemade has been ‘perfect’
Following his return to the national team setup, Thiaw has been speaking to Sky Germany.
He discussed a range of topics, from his love for his Newcastle United chant to his thoughts on Woltemade’s start to life in English football.
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For Thiaw, it is no surprise to see the lanky striker start so well.
“Nick’s qualities are undisputed,” he said.
“Everyone is aware of that. I already knew Nick before, so I was aware of what he brings to the table and that he could definitely make it in England.
“The fact that he then got off to such a perfect start was perfect. He’s doing very well.”
Malick Thiaw and Nick Woltemade strike up Newcastle United friendship
Moving to a new country is always difficult for players. That is why it has been useful for both Thiaw and Woltemade to have had each other to help them settle in at Newcastle United.
“That’s great,” Thiaw said when asked about having a fellow German at St James’ Park.
“I think he [Woltemade] would say the same, but he’s really helped me. It’s always different when you share that comfort zone with another German. Someone you can always speak German with and whose interests you share.
“He’s become a very good friend of mine. I’m very happy he’s here and he’s a great asset to the team.”
They are now set to be international teammates, with Thiaw and Woltemade two of 12 Newcastle United players on international duty right now. That speaks volumes about Thiaw’s performances in black and white, as this is his first Germany call-up in two years.
The Toon duo could be in action on Friday and Tuesday, with Germany set to face Luxembourg and Slovakia in World Cup qualifiers.