Italian media outlets continue to be scathing of Nick Woltemade as Juventus prepare to take on Celta Vigo tonight.
Newcastle United sanctioned the German’s exit on deadline day to create wiggle room for Matias Fernandez-Pardo’s arrival. Woltemade enjoyed a solid start at St James’ Park - scoring four in his first five Premier League games - but failed to replicate those early heights.
A new lease of life under Matthias Jaissle was the hope but it soon became clear that Woltemade did not fit his system either. The Magpies essentially discarded the club-record arrival after one season.
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Italian media reaction
After just a month at the club, his reception in Italy has been brutal. Following the 1-1 draw with Cagliari at the weekend, Tuttosport wrote: “Good luck, Mr. Spalletti, trying to make sense of this player who currently seems out of place.”
Gazzetta dello Sport declared Woltemade a “problem case” just days earlier. But without game time, the striker cannot showcase his talents and he is expected to be named on the bench for the trip to Celta this evening.
Nick Woltemade break clause truth
Toon chiefs received around £3.5million as Woltemade headed to Juventus on loan. It is hoped that he can rediscover some form ahead of a potential sale next summer.
However, Woltemade has scored just one Europa League penalty from seven appearances in Turin. To his credit, he is yet to start a Serie A game, but that has not stopped the intense scrutiny from the Italian media.
Woltemade is lacking confidence in front of goal and desperately needs a break. As reported by The Gazette last week, there is no option for him to return to Newcastle early.
For now, he must push and fight for his place in Luciano Spalletti’s starting line-up. Randal Kolo Muani has been given the not up front but, so far, is also struggling to hit the ground running.
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Nick Woltemade on Juventus move
“Of course, I'm really really happy to be here,” Woltemade said after completing a deadline-day move. “It's a big club. I'm excited for this new adventure, (to live in) another new country and play at the biggest club in Italy. I’m proud of myself, my family, my agency and all the guys at Juventus who made it happen.
“Last year, I changed to England. I can take a lot with me like physical-wise and also smartness in the game. I'm really happy to be in Italy to play in another top league at a really big club. This is a really nice point for me - I'm just to start.”