Jump to content
Newcastle-Online

Nick Woltemade

Fak

by Fak
in Football

 Share

Recommended Posts

Gola

Gola

Posted
Posted

I'm sure the media would find some way to make us out to be the bad guys though. Maybe constant questions about our ownership and how that plays. Can see Louise Taylor asking that in a presser before an away game at Manure.

Link to post
Share on other sites
gazza ladra

gazza ladra

Posted
Posted
1 hour ago, Anderson said:

 

Literally the one thing that can't be argued against post takeover is their hit rate with transfers, every major signing has been a success. In fact I'd argue the only signing full stop that hasn't worked out is Targett, and that was after a successful loan.

I think that Woltemade and Wissa signings are different. The club was forced into making these signings after missing on other targets.

 

I think they would've prefered to keep Isak and sign a young talent as a Wilson upgrade. Wissa is better than current Wilson, but he's not an ideal choice because of his age.

 

Woltemade is a risk. Maybe he'll be great. But there were safer bets available  and we missed out.

 

So these are different in that I don't think that either player was anything like the club's first choice.

Link to post
Share on other sites
80

80

Posted
Posted
On 16/09/2025 at 11:52, Shelveys Hair said:

A good Interview from German Sky Sports (in German) at SJP but you need vpn set to Germany to view it, I had to use auto-translate on youtube

About 25 minutes long
 

 

 

 

 

Apologies for the lack of formatting, but here's a translated transcript of the interview for anyone who wants it. Thought the most interesting thing is he says he and Howe have the same vision for his future play; that he'll drop deep a lot and be a main creative outlet for us, and this was why he was quickly convinced to join us. Other than that, he comes across pretty much as he does in the other media - family oriented, excited to play English football at Christmas rather than having a break etc:

 

[Music] The Premier League by Sky is on tour. Welcome, dear viewers. We are here in the far north, not just in the far north, but in the hallowed halls of Newcastle United. A club with a lot of passion, a lot of tradition and a lot of ambition, and to fulfill this ambition they have brought in someone from the Bundesliga, whom I am meeting today and with whom I have an appointment. Nick Woltemade, greetings Nick, my dear freich. Hello, hello, hello. Very good. See you in the dressing room. It's best if we sit next to each other. Yes, right in front of your shirt. Let me ask you straight away, why the 27? M Yes, I've already said it, my mother's birthday is on January 27th. I actually had 27 in Elersberg during my live station back then and yes, the 11 that I had shucked wasn't free. That's why I said it and I'm very satisfied. How were you received here at the club and by the lads? How were your first few days? Yes, very, very good. Really, I was extremely happy with that too. I was a bit hesitant about the language at first, but I was super relaxed. Yes, I really couldn't have imagined it any better. I think the boys have got on very well with me, as have the coaching staff. I talk to them a lot, and you can see with the coach that it's a very human level, and that was always important to me, and that was my impression at my previous positions, that the coach was also very human, and you can see it here again, and yes, it's nice to see, and that makes you feel welcome more quickly, it already feels very, very good, and yes, the training sessions were good, not all of the boys have been here yet, but yes, it's fun, and I think this is the right step for me, I think, and for you, someone on the same level as you at 198 with Dan Burn, who can talk to you. Have you had a few duels with him, or have you not trained together at all? No, not yet. He was also with the national team. Before that, we were both, or I wasn't, I wasn't here again yet, then we went straight to the paid team, then I think we came back today, but there wasn't a free fight yet, but there are definitely a lot of big guys here. It's crazy. Not like in Germany, where I was the biggest, really a lot of big ones. I think Nick Pa, I am bread, Al C istot, there are a lot of big guys here and but two fights not. [Music] And how were your first few days with the coach? Because you said you had a good exchange with RDH? Yes, it was great. Um, I've had one-on-one conversations with him every day so far, about tactics, which is also easy, yes, yesterday we talked about it, yes, I should explain my whole CV, where I was born, where I grew up, where I lived now and so on. And I think it's not a given that a coach is that interested in the person. And then it's quite small here, I've just noticed. Um, but yes, that is nice to see and as I said, it is important to me personally that people pay attention to people outside of football too and that is very extreme here and it is very nice to see. Mhm. And that is the famous and narrow tunnel too, if we take a look at it, that is something that is somehow part of the tradition I was talking about earlier. Yes, I think, no, it's so typically English, I haven't been to that many stadiums yet, to be honest. I'm also really looking forward to seeing something nice, even in completely new stadiums. Um, but yes, I think that speaks for itself, doesn't it? It all looks very compact and I think when you walk out it's definitely good here. I'd say we go into the next room and just sit down comfortably and carry on. [Applause] Yes, we're sitting in the referee's dressing room now. They've embellished things a bit, of course, but that's also a topic we want to talk about. Referees in the Premier League, they let things go. What can you expect? Yes, I think physicality. Um, I watched the game against Leeds live in the stadium. Actually, that was my first Premier League game that I saw live in the stadium. Um, yes, so it's definitely going well. Um, but I think it actually suits my style of play, I like it, and I always had a lot of challenges in Germany, and of course the physicality here is different again, and I also noticed that the refereeing criteria are much more loose than in Germany. Yes, I'm excited. I'm looking forward to it. You've just come back from the national team. Fresh, it was all a bit hectic, you said.

 

Uh, let's stay with the national team for a moment, because we were talking about Flo Wirz earlier. After the game against Norderland, he said he thought he still needed time in the Premier League, and that you have to allow a young player that. Did you talk beforehand about what might happen to you? Did he perhaps give you a tip, as he has been in England for a while now? Yes, a few other people at the DFB who also play in the Premier League, including Wkrug and Pascal Gruß, who played here for a long time. We talked about it a lot, of course, and I also know that I will need time. Logical. So I think it's completely legitimate and a normal step for you to come here as a young player, like me, a very young player. Flo came here for quite a lot of money, and I did too, for quite a lot of money. Of course, there's always the expectation that everything will work out. Um, but in my head it's quite clear. So, I will need time and I will give myself the time. From the outside it will probably not be made so easy that I will be given a lot of time. I think the same is true of Flo. Um, but I think it's completely normal that you need time and I think it's the same for every other player who comes here, it's simply a different level, a different intensity and I think those are the main points. So just stay with the national team for a moment. I would do the same again. There were boos when you were substituted. Many people spoke out afterwards, including many experts, who said it's typically German not to support the player. How did you react? How did you perceive it? Yes, I perceived it. Um, but yes, if people think they can boo, then it's okay. That's their opinion, their right. I think it's a lot of money to get to the stadium and if they don't like what you're doing on the pitch then they're free to say their opinion. As I said, I think it's part of it. It can happen to anyone, it hasn't happened once and yes, it's sport, it's football, emotions are part of it and I think that's the nice thing, that emotions are involved and that's what everyone wants and that's what I want too and if emotions turn against me then that's just the way it is and I'll just try to give it my all and hopefully I'll be there soon. You said in your first interview at Newcastle that it wasn't really your fault that the record transfer fee, you are Newcastle's record transfer, was so high. Ultimately, in the Premier League rankings you were fourth behind Isak Wirz and Ecke. What does this sum ultimately do to you? Or can you ultimately block it out for yourself or have you perhaps even set up an emergency mechanism so that you can block it out at some point if push comes to shove? The business, right? Essentially, we players are part of the business and I can't do anything about it if a club says, hey, we want that player and, yeah, the other club where I played says that's the price and that's what will be paid, then yes, then that's just the way it is. I think we as players can't do anything about it or can't influence it and for me the only thing that counts is performance and even if I have the puck now it doesn't change anything for me that I say I'll give myself time, I want to arrive, I want to give myself time and I think that's important too and if I tell myself that every game costs this much money and now I only look at that, in my opinion that's the completely wrong approach and it's not my approach and of course I know that expectations from outside are definitely higher. Um, but yes, I saw it, Franking, I don't even know what it was like. Um, the numbers aren't right, not all of them. Um, but then you're just like that. In any case, it was a lot of money. But ultimately, yes, I try not to look at it that way. Of course, you're confronted with it, no question. But for me, it's still my performance on the pitch, and I don't want to be seen wearing a yellow card when they're on the outside doing that. It's just the business, and what's more.

 

Where does the coach see you in the team? Is it a connecting position between the new and defensive midfield, because you're someone who likes to take part in the game with your style of football, or rather further forward? No, I think you said it well. Um, he sees me, that I'm looking for a new game. Yes. I'm 433, but still I also have the freedom to drop into midfield, to get the ball from there, to let my creativity run wild, to use my teammates and yes, that is also what caught my attention so much, that I said, hey, that is exactly how I imagine, how I like to play and um, yes, that is why they convinced me quite quickly. Then of course a big argument is the Champions League. What you weren't allowed to do at VfB last season because you weren't registered and yet this whole year was of course a dream year. We even had the pleasure of talking about it last season. It was basically a Cinderella story from Bremen, where you didn't play at all, then you watched the Champions League for VfB Stuttgart, but then you won the title in the end, you reached the final with the U21s, then also with the senior national team, now suddenly the Premier League in the morning and so you can rewind the last 12 months. What goes on before your human eye? Yes, crazy. I think you just said that there were quite a few things that happened in my last year and yes, I am very proud of it. Very proud, but also very grateful and I know what got me there. Of course it was all the people, all the coaches, all the people in charge who trusted me, but above all myself, I think. I dealt with the feedback from the Champions League very well and only drew from it to keep pushing and motivating myself. I think that this kept taking me to new levels during the season and I think my consistency came into play too, so that I knew how I got there and kept at it. And now I'm of course happy, which was also a key argument, as you already said, to play in the Champions League and, yes, now I've arrived in the best league, playing in the Champions League and I think those are two very, very good arguments, which also convinced me, yes, which are also why I wanted to make the move. And the nice thing is, you'll play your first Champions League game next week, hopefully against none other than FC Barcelona. You still have PSG in the group, and you still have to go to Leverkusen. So, there are some good opponents there. Um, a young man who, at 23, plays his first Champions League game against Barcelona, you can definitely envy him. Yes, nice. What's nice, I think, as I said, is what I've tried to work on over the last few years. That's why I don't really care who we're playing against. Of course, it's a nice thing to get into, and at home it's even cooler, but I also find the other opponents very interesting. I think it's a cool group with a bit of everything. Germany is there too. I'm looking forward to coming back to Germany. I think it's nice in Eintracht Frankfurt and all the other teams that I think aren't that far away from Germany. That's why it still feels really nice, but it's a great competition and I'm happy that I can be a part of it now. Let's talk a bit about the Premier League. What do you need to be able to succeed in the Premier League? And especially now - we had a conversation - you didn't watch that much Premier League in Germany, you watched more the first, second and third divisions, less the Premier League. Now you're up against the big boys. Yes, that's what you need. Well I think fundamentally it is still football and good football is played in Germany too but of course I think it is obvious in all cases the intensity when you compare the games, how they look, here in the Premier League I think there is a lot of back and forth, a lot of intensity in the two matches and I think that is the biggest difference I would say, compared to Germany. Newcastle United are also known for playing very, very intense football under Eddie Ha. How physically fit are you for this type of football? What did Eddie say about you? Yes, I am, I am definitely fit. I think I have played well over the last few weeks and months. But of course, yes, we are also working on getting more into areas, creating more spins, making more intensive runs, covering more meters and I think that will be the most important thing here and, or not the most important thing, but definitely the biggest change and that is something we are working on.

 

So yesterday after training I did a few more runs eight and simply that I get to the level, fitness-wise too and yes, then it's like always in football, you'll get used to it game by game, get to the level more and more. I think it was no different in Germany, when you come up as a hungry player, you have to get used to it and it will be the same here, you'll have to get used to it but I think little by little you get more games. I've brought you something. Okay, I'm excited. Hi Nick, I have them here. Uh, it took over 20 years for there to be a German Newcastle again. Now, thank God, the time has come. I can hardly wait to see you in the black and white jersey, playing for the Tunisians and I just wanted to wish you all the best on your journey. You made a very good decision, great fans, great stadium, great team and I think a lot is possible there. So all the best on your way to Newcastle. I'll follow it and maybe I'll be able to go there myself one day and have a drink together at Pein. You should have one. All the best, see you soon. Ciao. Ciao. Yes, he said a lot of good things about it, right? The thing about Pein, a good team, probably doesn't fit into your diet plan. No, I don't know, it's beer-related. Yes. Yes. Yes. No, I drink, no, I don't drink. You're out. I'm out. Just water. Yes, exactly. I'm out. That's not for me. You mentioned the kitchen, especially because you have a special diet plan. How do you manage? Very well. Really, it's good in Germany too, I have to say. But here too, no problem at all. I think every wish you have will be fulfilled. That's why it's very pleasant and not complicated when I'm at Feinisse. You talked about this project earlier; it's a bit long-term, too; you want to stay a bit longer. What are the goals you discussed, especially regarding the club? We've now qualified for the Champions League again, as we talked about it. Um, are there any other goals beyond that? I think the project is something really cool and I think you can see now that the coach has been here for years and I think the Grube Kern team has been here for years and the club is always bringing in new players, like me for example. And I think that's the great thing about it, I think the path the club should take is what you've seen in the last two years or in general in the last few years, I think there's something new every year and I think if we manage to qualify for the Champions League in the Premier League twice in a row, I think that's statement enough and shows which path we're already on and where we want to go and then I think if we manage to keep up the level in the Premier League where it's so close now, where there are so many games, I think it feels like there's a supposed top team every year that doesn't make it to the top. Um, I think that's enough and I think it shows the direction the club wants to go and um, yes, I thought that was the interesting thing, the cool thing is, it's another cool big club. St. James Park is one of the most atmospheric stadiums, I can tell you that. What is it that pushes you from the stands? Everyone who has played here says that, even in the division, everyone said that this is actually the coolest away game in terms of the atmosphere and everyone said it was really crazy. That's why I'm really looking forward to it. I'm very excited. They've all set the bar very high, but what I've noticed so far when you walk through the city, everyone is crazy about the club. And I think you've said it again now, I think you'll notice that when you walk into the stadium here. Yes, that the people are excited. Club. [Music] What role can Newcastle United play in the Champions League without saying that they want to win it? But they can win it because that's how the system works. So, you can of course play in the playoffs or play in the knockout round, or progress, more easily than if you play over a full season with 38 games. Then you obviously have to show consistency, like teams like Manchester City and Liverpool have done in recent years, who of course also play at a different level, but you can still go far in the Champions League. What do you think, what do you dare to do?

 

Question. Making a prediction isn't that easy. Just now, as someone who hasn't played in the web competition yet. Um, but you, I think you saw in the group stage last year, I think it's great. I think the mode makes the whole competition much more interesting, because there were, yes, I think I saw last year, a lot of teams that supposedly wouldn't have been in the top 8 if you had predicted it, suddenly there and I think that shows the mode perfectly that a lot is possible and where it will go. Hopefully far, right? I can't say right now, I find it difficult to make a prediction. Um, but yes, if you make it through the group stage, like you did last year, then I think that's something you can build on. Speaking of really looking forward to it, we talked about the Christmas period. I can say that it is a special time. Are you also looking forward to the Christmas season, when there will probably be less free time, but a lot of football and a lot of traveling? Yes, it was, it is something nice. I think up until now I have only really known Christmas as always being free. That will not be the case this time. The family has already talked about everyone coming here to Newcastle. So this year, for the first time, Christmas will not be celebrated in Bremen, but here. Yes, I think that is what makes it special and unique and that somehow shows the attraction that it is the top league and it is the only league that is actually continuing to play. And yes, I only really know it from television, that when you have free time, you watch the games and I think it is great to be part of it yourself and, yes, a very special time, which I think you can then combine very nicely with the nice family time and the games, hopefully those that are successful. You just mentioned the family, they were there right at the beginning, in the first few days, not now, but will be there more often too. Yes, well, my dad goes there every week, my mum, because he likes the Premier League. Yes, exactly. He just likes to watch every one of my games. He also likes to go to every away stadium. In Germany, he was everywhere at every game. There are new stadiums here too. Yes, but I don't know how often they'll be there. They're not here right now. But my friends are here right now, for example. Well, actually, I'll probably always have visitors here, which you'll really like too, because I'm someone who likes being around people and, especially now in the early days abroad, there are lots of things that you have to get for yourself, which is always good for support, and I don't even know whether my parents will be coming this week or next week. They will definitely come in the next few weeks, I think. And they're really looking forward to it, and yes, the connection isn't that easy from Bremen. But that won't be the attacking strategy, as you said 433, that's one that Eddie Hau has also practiced over the years. How did he see you there, or how exactly does he see you there? What can you bring to the table with your game that, for example, my predecessors didn't have? The conversations were basically like this: he said that he definitely sees me in the new position. But of course always the same way I played in Stuttgart or wherever. That I drop back a lot and have a lot of balls at my feet. That was very important to him, yes, that the lads now I notice in training, that they pass me at my feet, especially around the 16-yard box, that I pass the ball through or that I have an eye for my teammates. Um, yes, I think that these topics have always been very important. I think he often emphasized that I am a very creative player and that we also need this creativity. And um, yes, I think with that, um, now in the first few games, I noticed that the boys definitely want to play and want to play football and have power and pass to me a lot and I think, yes, in the first few highlights there were only three, of course it's difficult to say now, right? But from a feeling point of view, it was really good and it was really like, hey, I can also bring my strengths to you. Um, because it is also allowed from me, because it is also allowed for me to let myself go, to fill up the midfield in certain situations, to drop into certain half-spaces

 

n can let it go and that is exactly the idea that I have of my positioning and my style of play. What expectations or, let's say, goals do you perhaps have of yourself regarding your game? At 23 you can't be completely complete, of course, but especially in the faster league, in a more intensive league, that means quicker decision-making, maybe also looking to finish quicker, becoming even more of a goal threat than in Stuttgart. Yes, those are points that you mentioned. I think those are things that I'm working on, things that we're already working on a lot. We also looked at a lot of scenes from me in Stuttgart to see what I could have done better, how I could have created more dangerous situations, create space and, yes, I think it's important for me to increase the speed of my intensity, the speed of my sprints and I think if you do that and get used to it, then you'll reach a good level. And yes, I think that if you can manage the league here in terms of intensity and football, then I think the world will be your oyster. And yes, I'm really looking forward to this project and to reaching a new level because I think I can definitely achieve it here and I'll get to the next level here. And yes, that's what appeals to me so much about the job. We've talked a lot about football and I know that you're a fashionable type too, a bit of a departure from the football pitch. My black and white appearance today suits the club better. We don't want to talk about me, but about you. How important is fashion to you? It's just a topic that interests me a lot in football and I think fashion is cool and I enjoy it and my working day usually goes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and after that I have other topics that interest me and then topics like fashion and things like that and things that interest me, that I enjoy, which I also see as a hobby and where I find a good balance. Because it's also quite nice to get out of the football world and slip into a different bubble and it's nice. I have fun with it. I quite like it. It doesn't have to appeal to everyone. I also say that people have different tastes. That's the nice thing about it, that everyone can wear what they want. I like my things and I think a lot of people like them too, but probably just as many don't. That's why football is completely fine with me. Everyone is allowed to have their own opinion, but it's definitely a topic that concerns us a lot. Is there perhaps a message you would like to send to the Newcastle fans? Perhaps to conclude with a football match. Return the gift. Okay, I was just wondering. No, but you, I'm just looking forward to this time. I'm looking forward to experiencing something new. That's always important to me in life, to experience something new, and yes, I'm here. I'm experiencing something new. New country, new league, new fans, awesome club, awesome stadium. I also think the kits look great when we come back for the match. That's why I'm incredibly excited about it. Very nice. We're happy for you. Thank you very much for taking the time, and I'd like to say, see you soon here in Newcastle and at St. James Park. We'll stay tuned with Nick Woltemade and, of course, with the Premier League on Sky on Tour. [Music]

Link to post
Share on other sites
andycap

andycap

Posted
Posted
17 minutes ago, 80 said:

Apologies for the lack of formatting, but here's a translated transcript of the interview for anyone who wants it. Thought the most interesting thing is he says he and Howe have the same vision for his future play; that he'll drop deep a lot and be a main creative outlet for us, and this was why he was quickly convinced to join us. Other than that, he comes across pretty much as he does in the other media - family oriented, excited to play English football at Christmas rather than having a break etc:

 

[Music] The Premier League by Sky is on tour. Welcome, dear viewers. We are here in the far north, not just in the far north, but in the hallowed halls of Newcastle United. A club with a lot of passion, a lot of tradition and a lot of ambition, and to fulfill this ambition they have brought in someone from the Bundesliga, whom I am meeting today and with whom I have an appointment. Nick Woltemade, greetings Nick, my dear freich. Hello, hello, hello. Very good. See you in the dressing room. It's best if we sit next to each other. Yes, right in front of your shirt. Let me ask you straight away, why the 27? M Yes, I've already said it, my mother's birthday is on January 27th. I actually had 27 in Elersberg during my live station back then and yes, the 11 that I had shucked wasn't free. That's why I said it and I'm very satisfied. How were you received here at the club and by the lads? How were your first few days? Yes, very, very good. Really, I was extremely happy with that too. I was a bit hesitant about the language at first, but I was super relaxed. Yes, I really couldn't have imagined it any better. I think the boys have got on very well with me, as have the coaching staff. I talk to them a lot, and you can see with the coach that it's a very human level, and that was always important to me, and that was my impression at my previous positions, that the coach was also very human, and you can see it here again, and yes, it's nice to see, and that makes you feel welcome more quickly, it already feels very, very good, and yes, the training sessions were good, not all of the boys have been here yet, but yes, it's fun, and I think this is the right step for me, I think, and for you, someone on the same level as you at 198 with Dan Burn, who can talk to you. Have you had a few duels with him, or have you not trained together at all? No, not yet. He was also with the national team. Before that, we were both, or I wasn't, I wasn't here again yet, then we went straight to the paid team, then I think we came back today, but there wasn't a free fight yet, but there are definitely a lot of big guys here. It's crazy. Not like in Germany, where I was the biggest, really a lot of big ones. I think Nick Pa, I am bread, Al C istot, there are a lot of big guys here and but two fights not. [Music] And how were your first few days with the coach? Because you said you had a good exchange with RDH? Yes, it was great. Um, I've had one-on-one conversations with him every day so far, about tactics, which is also easy, yes, yesterday we talked about it, yes, I should explain my whole CV, where I was born, where I grew up, where I lived now and so on. And I think it's not a given that a coach is that interested in the person. And then it's quite small here, I've just noticed. Um, but yes, that is nice to see and as I said, it is important to me personally that people pay attention to people outside of football too and that is very extreme here and it is very nice to see. Mhm. And that is the famous and narrow tunnel too, if we take a look at it, that is something that is somehow part of the tradition I was talking about earlier. Yes, I think, no, it's so typically English, I haven't been to that many stadiums yet, to be honest. I'm also really looking forward to seeing something nice, even in completely new stadiums. Um, but yes, I think that speaks for itself, doesn't it? It all looks very compact and I think when you walk out it's definitely good here. I'd say we go into the next room and just sit down comfortably and carry on. [Applause] Yes, we're sitting in the referee's dressing room now. They've embellished things a bit, of course, but that's also a topic we want to talk about. Referees in the Premier League, they let things go. What can you expect? Yes, I think physicality. Um, I watched the game against Leeds live in the stadium. Actually, that was my first Premier League game that I saw live in the stadium. Um, yes, so it's definitely going well. Um, but I think it actually suits my style of play, I like it, and I always had a lot of challenges in Germany, and of course the physicality here is different again, and I also noticed that the refereeing criteria are much more loose than in Germany. Yes, I'm excited. I'm looking forward to it. You've just come back from the national team. Fresh, it was all a bit hectic, you said.

 

Uh, let's stay with the national team for a moment, because we were talking about Flo Wirz earlier. After the game against Norderland, he said he thought he still needed time in the Premier League, and that you have to allow a young player that. Did you talk beforehand about what might happen to you? Did he perhaps give you a tip, as he has been in England for a while now? Yes, a few other people at the DFB who also play in the Premier League, including Wkrug and Pascal Gruß, who played here for a long time. We talked about it a lot, of course, and I also know that I will need time. Logical. So I think it's completely legitimate and a normal step for you to come here as a young player, like me, a very young player. Flo came here for quite a lot of money, and I did too, for quite a lot of money. Of course, there's always the expectation that everything will work out. Um, but in my head it's quite clear. So, I will need time and I will give myself the time. From the outside it will probably not be made so easy that I will be given a lot of time. I think the same is true of Flo. Um, but I think it's completely normal that you need time and I think it's the same for every other player who comes here, it's simply a different level, a different intensity and I think those are the main points. So just stay with the national team for a moment. I would do the same again. There were boos when you were substituted. Many people spoke out afterwards, including many experts, who said it's typically German not to support the player. How did you react? How did you perceive it? Yes, I perceived it. Um, but yes, if people think they can boo, then it's okay. That's their opinion, their right. I think it's a lot of money to get to the stadium and if they don't like what you're doing on the pitch then they're free to say their opinion. As I said, I think it's part of it. It can happen to anyone, it hasn't happened once and yes, it's sport, it's football, emotions are part of it and I think that's the nice thing, that emotions are involved and that's what everyone wants and that's what I want too and if emotions turn against me then that's just the way it is and I'll just try to give it my all and hopefully I'll be there soon. You said in your first interview at Newcastle that it wasn't really your fault that the record transfer fee, you are Newcastle's record transfer, was so high. Ultimately, in the Premier League rankings you were fourth behind Isak Wirz and Ecke. What does this sum ultimately do to you? Or can you ultimately block it out for yourself or have you perhaps even set up an emergency mechanism so that you can block it out at some point if push comes to shove? The business, right? Essentially, we players are part of the business and I can't do anything about it if a club says, hey, we want that player and, yeah, the other club where I played says that's the price and that's what will be paid, then yes, then that's just the way it is. I think we as players can't do anything about it or can't influence it and for me the only thing that counts is performance and even if I have the puck now it doesn't change anything for me that I say I'll give myself time, I want to arrive, I want to give myself time and I think that's important too and if I tell myself that every game costs this much money and now I only look at that, in my opinion that's the completely wrong approach and it's not my approach and of course I know that expectations from outside are definitely higher. Um, but yes, I saw it, Franking, I don't even know what it was like. Um, the numbers aren't right, not all of them. Um, but then you're just like that. In any case, it was a lot of money. But ultimately, yes, I try not to look at it that way. Of course, you're confronted with it, no question. But for me, it's still my performance on the pitch, and I don't want to be seen wearing a yellow card when they're on the outside doing that. It's just the business, and what's more.

 

Where does the coach see you in the team? Is it a connecting position between the new and defensive midfield, because you're someone who likes to take part in the game with your style of football, or rather further forward? No, I think you said it well. Um, he sees me, that I'm looking for a new game. Yes. I'm 433, but still I also have the freedom to drop into midfield, to get the ball from there, to let my creativity run wild, to use my teammates and yes, that is also what caught my attention so much, that I said, hey, that is exactly how I imagine, how I like to play and um, yes, that is why they convinced me quite quickly. Then of course a big argument is the Champions League. What you weren't allowed to do at VfB last season because you weren't registered and yet this whole year was of course a dream year. We even had the pleasure of talking about it last season. It was basically a Cinderella story from Bremen, where you didn't play at all, then you watched the Champions League for VfB Stuttgart, but then you won the title in the end, you reached the final with the U21s, then also with the senior national team, now suddenly the Premier League in the morning and so you can rewind the last 12 months. What goes on before your human eye? Yes, crazy. I think you just said that there were quite a few things that happened in my last year and yes, I am very proud of it. Very proud, but also very grateful and I know what got me there. Of course it was all the people, all the coaches, all the people in charge who trusted me, but above all myself, I think. I dealt with the feedback from the Champions League very well and only drew from it to keep pushing and motivating myself. I think that this kept taking me to new levels during the season and I think my consistency came into play too, so that I knew how I got there and kept at it. And now I'm of course happy, which was also a key argument, as you already said, to play in the Champions League and, yes, now I've arrived in the best league, playing in the Champions League and I think those are two very, very good arguments, which also convinced me, yes, which are also why I wanted to make the move. And the nice thing is, you'll play your first Champions League game next week, hopefully against none other than FC Barcelona. You still have PSG in the group, and you still have to go to Leverkusen. So, there are some good opponents there. Um, a young man who, at 23, plays his first Champions League game against Barcelona, you can definitely envy him. Yes, nice. What's nice, I think, as I said, is what I've tried to work on over the last few years. That's why I don't really care who we're playing against. Of course, it's a nice thing to get into, and at home it's even cooler, but I also find the other opponents very interesting. I think it's a cool group with a bit of everything. Germany is there too. I'm looking forward to coming back to Germany. I think it's nice in Eintracht Frankfurt and all the other teams that I think aren't that far away from Germany. That's why it still feels really nice, but it's a great competition and I'm happy that I can be a part of it now. Let's talk a bit about the Premier League. What do you need to be able to succeed in the Premier League? And especially now - we had a conversation - you didn't watch that much Premier League in Germany, you watched more the first, second and third divisions, less the Premier League. Now you're up against the big boys. Yes, that's what you need. Well I think fundamentally it is still football and good football is played in Germany too but of course I think it is obvious in all cases the intensity when you compare the games, how they look, here in the Premier League I think there is a lot of back and forth, a lot of intensity in the two matches and I think that is the biggest difference I would say, compared to Germany. Newcastle United are also known for playing very, very intense football under Eddie Ha. How physically fit are you for this type of football? What did Eddie say about you? Yes, I am, I am definitely fit. I think I have played well over the last few weeks and months. But of course, yes, we are also working on getting more into areas, creating more spins, making more intensive runs, covering more meters and I think that will be the most important thing here and, or not the most important thing, but definitely the biggest change and that is something we are working on.

 

So yesterday after training I did a few more runs eight and simply that I get to the level, fitness-wise too and yes, then it's like always in football, you'll get used to it game by game, get to the level more and more. I think it was no different in Germany, when you come up as a hungry player, you have to get used to it and it will be the same here, you'll have to get used to it but I think little by little you get more games. I've brought you something. Okay, I'm excited. Hi Nick, I have them here. Uh, it took over 20 years for there to be a German Newcastle again. Now, thank God, the time has come. I can hardly wait to see you in the black and white jersey, playing for the Tunisians and I just wanted to wish you all the best on your journey. You made a very good decision, great fans, great stadium, great team and I think a lot is possible there. So all the best on your way to Newcastle. I'll follow it and maybe I'll be able to go there myself one day and have a drink together at Pein. You should have one. All the best, see you soon. Ciao. Ciao. Yes, he said a lot of good things about it, right? The thing about Pein, a good team, probably doesn't fit into your diet plan. No, I don't know, it's beer-related. Yes. Yes. Yes. No, I drink, no, I don't drink. You're out. I'm out. Just water. Yes, exactly. I'm out. That's not for me. You mentioned the kitchen, especially because you have a special diet plan. How do you manage? Very well. Really, it's good in Germany too, I have to say. But here too, no problem at all. I think every wish you have will be fulfilled. That's why it's very pleasant and not complicated when I'm at Feinisse. You talked about this project earlier; it's a bit long-term, too; you want to stay a bit longer. What are the goals you discussed, especially regarding the club? We've now qualified for the Champions League again, as we talked about it. Um, are there any other goals beyond that? I think the project is something really cool and I think you can see now that the coach has been here for years and I think the Grube Kern team has been here for years and the club is always bringing in new players, like me for example. And I think that's the great thing about it, I think the path the club should take is what you've seen in the last two years or in general in the last few years, I think there's something new every year and I think if we manage to qualify for the Champions League in the Premier League twice in a row, I think that's statement enough and shows which path we're already on and where we want to go and then I think if we manage to keep up the level in the Premier League where it's so close now, where there are so many games, I think it feels like there's a supposed top team every year that doesn't make it to the top. Um, I think that's enough and I think it shows the direction the club wants to go and um, yes, I thought that was the interesting thing, the cool thing is, it's another cool big club. St. James Park is one of the most atmospheric stadiums, I can tell you that. What is it that pushes you from the stands? Everyone who has played here says that, even in the division, everyone said that this is actually the coolest away game in terms of the atmosphere and everyone said it was really crazy. That's why I'm really looking forward to it. I'm very excited. They've all set the bar very high, but what I've noticed so far when you walk through the city, everyone is crazy about the club. And I think you've said it again now, I think you'll notice that when you walk into the stadium here. Yes, that the people are excited. Club. [Music] What role can Newcastle United play in the Champions League without saying that they want to win it? But they can win it because that's how the system works. So, you can of course play in the playoffs or play in the knockout round, or progress, more easily than if you play over a full season with 38 games. Then you obviously have to show consistency, like teams like Manchester City and Liverpool have done in recent years, who of course also play at a different level, but you can still go far in the Champions League. What do you think, what do you dare to do?

 

Question. Making a prediction isn't that easy. Just now, as someone who hasn't played in the web competition yet. Um, but you, I think you saw in the group stage last year, I think it's great. I think the mode makes the whole competition much more interesting, because there were, yes, I think I saw last year, a lot of teams that supposedly wouldn't have been in the top 8 if you had predicted it, suddenly there and I think that shows the mode perfectly that a lot is possible and where it will go. Hopefully far, right? I can't say right now, I find it difficult to make a prediction. Um, but yes, if you make it through the group stage, like you did last year, then I think that's something you can build on. Speaking of really looking forward to it, we talked about the Christmas period. I can say that it is a special time. Are you also looking forward to the Christmas season, when there will probably be less free time, but a lot of football and a lot of traveling? Yes, it was, it is something nice. I think up until now I have only really known Christmas as always being free. That will not be the case this time. The family has already talked about everyone coming here to Newcastle. So this year, for the first time, Christmas will not be celebrated in Bremen, but here. Yes, I think that is what makes it special and unique and that somehow shows the attraction that it is the top league and it is the only league that is actually continuing to play. And yes, I only really know it from television, that when you have free time, you watch the games and I think it is great to be part of it yourself and, yes, a very special time, which I think you can then combine very nicely with the nice family time and the games, hopefully those that are successful. You just mentioned the family, they were there right at the beginning, in the first few days, not now, but will be there more often too. Yes, well, my dad goes there every week, my mum, because he likes the Premier League. Yes, exactly. He just likes to watch every one of my games. He also likes to go to every away stadium. In Germany, he was everywhere at every game. There are new stadiums here too. Yes, but I don't know how often they'll be there. They're not here right now. But my friends are here right now, for example. Well, actually, I'll probably always have visitors here, which you'll really like too, because I'm someone who likes being around people and, especially now in the early days abroad, there are lots of things that you have to get for yourself, which is always good for support, and I don't even know whether my parents will be coming this week or next week. They will definitely come in the next few weeks, I think. And they're really looking forward to it, and yes, the connection isn't that easy from Bremen. But that won't be the attacking strategy, as you said 433, that's one that Eddie Hau has also practiced over the years. How did he see you there, or how exactly does he see you there? What can you bring to the table with your game that, for example, my predecessors didn't have? The conversations were basically like this: he said that he definitely sees me in the new position. But of course always the same way I played in Stuttgart or wherever. That I drop back a lot and have a lot of balls at my feet. That was very important to him, yes, that the lads now I notice in training, that they pass me at my feet, especially around the 16-yard box, that I pass the ball through or that I have an eye for my teammates. Um, yes, I think that these topics have always been very important. I think he often emphasized that I am a very creative player and that we also need this creativity. And um, yes, I think with that, um, now in the first few games, I noticed that the boys definitely want to play and want to play football and have power and pass to me a lot and I think, yes, in the first few highlights there were only three, of course it's difficult to say now, right? But from a feeling point of view, it was really good and it was really like, hey, I can also bring my strengths to you. Um, because it is also allowed from me, because it is also allowed for me to let myself go, to fill up the midfield in certain situations, to drop into certain half-spaces

 

n can let it go and that is exactly the idea that I have of my positioning and my style of play. What expectations or, let's say, goals do you perhaps have of yourself regarding your game? At 23 you can't be completely complete, of course, but especially in the faster league, in a more intensive league, that means quicker decision-making, maybe also looking to finish quicker, becoming even more of a goal threat than in Stuttgart. Yes, those are points that you mentioned. I think those are things that I'm working on, things that we're already working on a lot. We also looked at a lot of scenes from me in Stuttgart to see what I could have done better, how I could have created more dangerous situations, create space and, yes, I think it's important for me to increase the speed of my intensity, the speed of my sprints and I think if you do that and get used to it, then you'll reach a good level. And yes, I think that if you can manage the league here in terms of intensity and football, then I think the world will be your oyster. And yes, I'm really looking forward to this project and to reaching a new level because I think I can definitely achieve it here and I'll get to the next level here. And yes, that's what appeals to me so much about the job. We've talked a lot about football and I know that you're a fashionable type too, a bit of a departure from the football pitch. My black and white appearance today suits the club better. We don't want to talk about me, but about you. How important is fashion to you? It's just a topic that interests me a lot in football and I think fashion is cool and I enjoy it and my working day usually goes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and after that I have other topics that interest me and then topics like fashion and things like that and things that interest me, that I enjoy, which I also see as a hobby and where I find a good balance. Because it's also quite nice to get out of the football world and slip into a different bubble and it's nice. I have fun with it. I quite like it. It doesn't have to appeal to everyone. I also say that people have different tastes. That's the nice thing about it, that everyone can wear what they want. I like my things and I think a lot of people like them too, but probably just as many don't. That's why football is completely fine with me. Everyone is allowed to have their own opinion, but it's definitely a topic that concerns us a lot. Is there perhaps a message you would like to send to the Newcastle fans? Perhaps to conclude with a football match. Return the gift. Okay, I was just wondering. No, but you, I'm just looking forward to this time. I'm looking forward to experiencing something new. That's always important to me in life, to experience something new, and yes, I'm here. I'm experiencing something new. New country, new league, new fans, awesome club, awesome stadium. I also think the kits look great when we come back for the match. That's why I'm incredibly excited about it. Very nice. We're happy for you. Thank you very much for taking the time, and I'd like to say, see you soon here in Newcastle and at St. James Park. We'll stay tuned with Nick Woltemade and, of course, with the Premier League on Sky on Tour. [Music]

I hope that's an article? 😂 

Link to post
Share on other sites
clintdempsey

clintdempsey

Posted
Posted

A ChatGPT special of the above transcript.

 

Nick Woltemade: Newcastle’s Gentle Giant Ready to Make His Mark

 

When Nick Woltemade walks into the players’ lounge at St. James’ Park, he doesn’t have the look of someone burdened by price tags or expectation. At nearly two meters tall, the 23-year-old German carries himself with a quiet ease, shaking hands firmly, smiling often. Newcastle United’s record signing may be young, but there’s no sense of nerves. Instead, he radiates calm — the calm of someone who knows exactly what he wants from this new chapter.

 

“I was a little worried about the language at first,” he admits, settling into a chair. “But everything has been super relaxed. The lads, the staff — they welcomed me immediately. Honestly, I couldn’t have imagined a better start.”

 

It’s a classic Newcastle welcome, and one that clearly left an impression. Eddie Howe, the manager credited with transforming the club’s fortunes, has already made time for daily one-to-one chats. “He’s very human,” Woltemade says. “He wants to know you as a person, not just a player. That makes such a difference when you’re moving countries and starting fresh.”

A New Kind of Football

 

English football has a reputation, and Woltemade knows it. He’d barely landed before heading to watch Newcastle face Leeds, and what he saw was exactly what he expected: a bruising, relentless contest.

 

“It was physical, very physical,” he recalls, with a grin that suggests he’s not put off in the slightest. “But I like that. I’ve always enjoyed duels. In Germany, fouls are called much quicker. Here, you’re allowed to fight more. That suits me.”

 

At 1.98m, he’s built for battles, yet in the company of Dan Burn and Sven Botman, he no longer towers quite so much. “Back home I was always the tallest on the pitch. Here? Not so much. It’s funny — there are a lot of big guys here.”

Pressure Without Fear

 

With his move came headlines. Record fees. High expectations. But Woltemade shrugs them off.

 

“The business side — I can’t control it,” he says, matter-of-fact. “For me, performance is what matters. Of course, expectations are higher, but I’ll give myself the time I need to adapt. That’s the only way.”

 

It’s not bravado, more a steady belief in process. He knows he won’t explode into the Premier League overnight, and he’s fine with that. “I know I’ll need time,” he repeats. “And I’ll give myself that time.”

The Howe Plan

 

So where does Howe see him? The answer reveals why Newcastle pushed so hard to sign him.

 

“In a 4-3-3, dropping a little deeper, connecting play, being creative,” Woltemade explains. “That freedom is why I came. The coach trusts me to link the game, to make things happen. Of course, I need to add more goals — that’s the next step. But the role fits me perfectly.”

 

That role will soon be tested on the biggest stage of all. Drawn against Barcelona, PSG and Leverkusen in the Champions League, Newcastle face nights that could define their season. For Woltemade, it’s a dream come true.

 

“Honestly, I don’t care who we play,” he says, his smile widening. “Barça, PSG, whoever. It’s the Champions League. That’s where I want to test myself.”

Life Beyond Football

 

Yet there’s more to Woltemade than tactics and training ground drills. When the boots come off, he disappears into another world entirely — fashion.

 

“Football is my job from eight to three,” he says. “After that, I want something else to focus on. Fashion gives me balance. Everyone has their taste — this is mine. It takes me out of the football bubble.”

 

Family keeps him grounded too. His parents and close friends plan to visit regularly, especially around Christmas. It will be Woltemade’s first holiday season without the traditional Bundesliga break, but he’s not worried. “They want to spend it in Newcastle,” he says warmly. “That makes it special.”

A Club on the Rise

 

What matters most now is the journey ahead. Newcastle, back in the Champions League and ambitious in the Premier League, are climbing fast. For Woltemade, joining feels like stepping into something bigger than himself.

 

“Qualifying for the Champions League again shows where this club is going,” he says. “The atmosphere at St. James’ Park — everyone talks about it. I can’t wait to feel it out there.”

 

There’s no arrogance, no false promises. Just quiet determination from a player who knows his strengths and trusts his path. “I believe this is the right step for me,” he says. And then, with that same calm smile, adds: “I know it’ll take time — but I’m ready.”

Link to post
Share on other sites
James

James

Posted
Posted
1 hour ago, 80 said:

Apologies for the lack of formatting, but here's a translated transcript of the interview for anyone who wants it. Thought the most interesting thing is he says he and Howe have the same vision for his future play; that he'll drop deep a lot and be a main creative outlet for us, and this was why he was quickly convinced to join us. Other than that, he comes across pretty much as he does in the other media - family oriented, excited to play English football at Christmas rather than having a break etc:

 

[Music] The Premier League by Sky is on tour. Welcome, dear viewers. We are here in the far north, not just in the far north, but in the hallowed halls of Newcastle United. A club with a lot of passion, a lot of tradition and a lot of ambition, and to fulfill this ambition they have brought in someone from the Bundesliga, whom I am meeting today and with whom I have an appointment. Nick Woltemade, greetings Nick, my dear freich. Hello, hello, hello. Very good. See you in the dressing room. It's best if we sit next to each other. Yes, right in front of your shirt. Let me ask you straight away, why the 27? M Yes, I've already said it, my mother's birthday is on January 27th. I actually had 27 in Elersberg during my live station back then and yes, the 11 that I had shucked wasn't free. That's why I said it and I'm very satisfied. How were you received here at the club and by the lads? How were your first few days? Yes, very, very good. Really, I was extremely happy with that too. I was a bit hesitant about the language at first, but I was super relaxed. Yes, I really couldn't have imagined it any better. I think the boys have got on very well with me, as have the coaching staff. I talk to them a lot, and you can see with the coach that it's a very human level, and that was always important to me, and that was my impression at my previous positions, that the coach was also very human, and you can see it here again, and yes, it's nice to see, and that makes you feel welcome more quickly, it already feels very, very good, and yes, the training sessions were good, not all of the boys have been here yet, but yes, it's fun, and I think this is the right step for me, I think, and for you, someone on the same level as you at 198 with Dan Burn, who can talk to you. Have you had a few duels with him, or have you not trained together at all? No, not yet. He was also with the national team. Before that, we were both, or I wasn't, I wasn't here again yet, then we went straight to the paid team, then I think we came back today, but there wasn't a free fight yet, but there are definitely a lot of big guys here. It's crazy. Not like in Germany, where I was the biggest, really a lot of big ones. I think Nick Pa, I am bread, Al C istot, there are a lot of big guys here and but two fights not. [Music] And how were your first few days with the coach? Because you said you had a good exchange with RDH? Yes, it was great. Um, I've had one-on-one conversations with him every day so far, about tactics, which is also easy, yes, yesterday we talked about it, yes, I should explain my whole CV, where I was born, where I grew up, where I lived now and so on. And I think it's not a given that a coach is that interested in the person. And then it's quite small here, I've just noticed. Um, but yes, that is nice to see and as I said, it is important to me personally that people pay attention to people outside of football too and that is very extreme here and it is very nice to see. Mhm. And that is the famous and narrow tunnel too, if we take a look at it, that is something that is somehow part of the tradition I was talking about earlier. Yes, I think, no, it's so typically English, I haven't been to that many stadiums yet, to be honest. I'm also really looking forward to seeing something nice, even in completely new stadiums. Um, but yes, I think that speaks for itself, doesn't it? It all looks very compact and I think when you walk out it's definitely good here. I'd say we go into the next room and just sit down comfortably and carry on. [Applause] Yes, we're sitting in the referee's dressing room now. They've embellished things a bit, of course, but that's also a topic we want to talk about. Referees in the Premier League, they let things go. What can you expect? Yes, I think physicality. Um, I watched the game against Leeds live in the stadium. Actually, that was my first Premier League game that I saw live in the stadium. Um, yes, so it's definitely going well. Um, but I think it actually suits my style of play, I like it, and I always had a lot of challenges in Germany, and of course the physicality here is different again, and I also noticed that the refereeing criteria are much more loose than in Germany. Yes, I'm excited. I'm looking forward to it. You've just come back from the national team. Fresh, it was all a bit hectic, you said.

 

Uh, let's stay with the national team for a moment, because we were talking about Flo Wirz earlier. After the game against Norderland, he said he thought he still needed time in the Premier League, and that you have to allow a young player that. Did you talk beforehand about what might happen to you? Did he perhaps give you a tip, as he has been in England for a while now? Yes, a few other people at the DFB who also play in the Premier League, including Wkrug and Pascal Gruß, who played here for a long time. We talked about it a lot, of course, and I also know that I will need time. Logical. So I think it's completely legitimate and a normal step for you to come here as a young player, like me, a very young player. Flo came here for quite a lot of money, and I did too, for quite a lot of money. Of course, there's always the expectation that everything will work out. Um, but in my head it's quite clear. So, I will need time and I will give myself the time. From the outside it will probably not be made so easy that I will be given a lot of time. I think the same is true of Flo. Um, but I think it's completely normal that you need time and I think it's the same for every other player who comes here, it's simply a different level, a different intensity and I think those are the main points. So just stay with the national team for a moment. I would do the same again. There were boos when you were substituted. Many people spoke out afterwards, including many experts, who said it's typically German not to support the player. How did you react? How did you perceive it? Yes, I perceived it. Um, but yes, if people think they can boo, then it's okay. That's their opinion, their right. I think it's a lot of money to get to the stadium and if they don't like what you're doing on the pitch then they're free to say their opinion. As I said, I think it's part of it. It can happen to anyone, it hasn't happened once and yes, it's sport, it's football, emotions are part of it and I think that's the nice thing, that emotions are involved and that's what everyone wants and that's what I want too and if emotions turn against me then that's just the way it is and I'll just try to give it my all and hopefully I'll be there soon. You said in your first interview at Newcastle that it wasn't really your fault that the record transfer fee, you are Newcastle's record transfer, was so high. Ultimately, in the Premier League rankings you were fourth behind Isak Wirz and Ecke. What does this sum ultimately do to you? Or can you ultimately block it out for yourself or have you perhaps even set up an emergency mechanism so that you can block it out at some point if push comes to shove? The business, right? Essentially, we players are part of the business and I can't do anything about it if a club says, hey, we want that player and, yeah, the other club where I played says that's the price and that's what will be paid, then yes, then that's just the way it is. I think we as players can't do anything about it or can't influence it and for me the only thing that counts is performance and even if I have the puck now it doesn't change anything for me that I say I'll give myself time, I want to arrive, I want to give myself time and I think that's important too and if I tell myself that every game costs this much money and now I only look at that, in my opinion that's the completely wrong approach and it's not my approach and of course I know that expectations from outside are definitely higher. Um, but yes, I saw it, Franking, I don't even know what it was like. Um, the numbers aren't right, not all of them. Um, but then you're just like that. In any case, it was a lot of money. But ultimately, yes, I try not to look at it that way. Of course, you're confronted with it, no question. But for me, it's still my performance on the pitch, and I don't want to be seen wearing a yellow card when they're on the outside doing that. It's just the business, and what's more.

 

Where does the coach see you in the team? Is it a connecting position between the new and defensive midfield, because you're someone who likes to take part in the game with your style of football, or rather further forward? No, I think you said it well. Um, he sees me, that I'm looking for a new game. Yes. I'm 433, but still I also have the freedom to drop into midfield, to get the ball from there, to let my creativity run wild, to use my teammates and yes, that is also what caught my attention so much, that I said, hey, that is exactly how I imagine, how I like to play and um, yes, that is why they convinced me quite quickly. Then of course a big argument is the Champions League. What you weren't allowed to do at VfB last season because you weren't registered and yet this whole year was of course a dream year. We even had the pleasure of talking about it last season. It was basically a Cinderella story from Bremen, where you didn't play at all, then you watched the Champions League for VfB Stuttgart, but then you won the title in the end, you reached the final with the U21s, then also with the senior national team, now suddenly the Premier League in the morning and so you can rewind the last 12 months. What goes on before your human eye? Yes, crazy. I think you just said that there were quite a few things that happened in my last year and yes, I am very proud of it. Very proud, but also very grateful and I know what got me there. Of course it was all the people, all the coaches, all the people in charge who trusted me, but above all myself, I think. I dealt with the feedback from the Champions League very well and only drew from it to keep pushing and motivating myself. I think that this kept taking me to new levels during the season and I think my consistency came into play too, so that I knew how I got there and kept at it. And now I'm of course happy, which was also a key argument, as you already said, to play in the Champions League and, yes, now I've arrived in the best league, playing in the Champions League and I think those are two very, very good arguments, which also convinced me, yes, which are also why I wanted to make the move. And the nice thing is, you'll play your first Champions League game next week, hopefully against none other than FC Barcelona. You still have PSG in the group, and you still have to go to Leverkusen. So, there are some good opponents there. Um, a young man who, at 23, plays his first Champions League game against Barcelona, you can definitely envy him. Yes, nice. What's nice, I think, as I said, is what I've tried to work on over the last few years. That's why I don't really care who we're playing against. Of course, it's a nice thing to get into, and at home it's even cooler, but I also find the other opponents very interesting. I think it's a cool group with a bit of everything. Germany is there too. I'm looking forward to coming back to Germany. I think it's nice in Eintracht Frankfurt and all the other teams that I think aren't that far away from Germany. That's why it still feels really nice, but it's a great competition and I'm happy that I can be a part of it now. Let's talk a bit about the Premier League. What do you need to be able to succeed in the Premier League? And especially now - we had a conversation - you didn't watch that much Premier League in Germany, you watched more the first, second and third divisions, less the Premier League. Now you're up against the big boys. Yes, that's what you need. Well I think fundamentally it is still football and good football is played in Germany too but of course I think it is obvious in all cases the intensity when you compare the games, how they look, here in the Premier League I think there is a lot of back and forth, a lot of intensity in the two matches and I think that is the biggest difference I would say, compared to Germany. Newcastle United are also known for playing very, very intense football under Eddie Ha. How physically fit are you for this type of football? What did Eddie say about you? Yes, I am, I am definitely fit. I think I have played well over the last few weeks and months. But of course, yes, we are also working on getting more into areas, creating more spins, making more intensive runs, covering more meters and I think that will be the most important thing here and, or not the most important thing, but definitely the biggest change and that is something we are working on.

 

So yesterday after training I did a few more runs eight and simply that I get to the level, fitness-wise too and yes, then it's like always in football, you'll get used to it game by game, get to the level more and more. I think it was no different in Germany, when you come up as a hungry player, you have to get used to it and it will be the same here, you'll have to get used to it but I think little by little you get more games. I've brought you something. Okay, I'm excited. Hi Nick, I have them here. Uh, it took over 20 years for there to be a German Newcastle again. Now, thank God, the time has come. I can hardly wait to see you in the black and white jersey, playing for the Tunisians and I just wanted to wish you all the best on your journey. You made a very good decision, great fans, great stadium, great team and I think a lot is possible there. So all the best on your way to Newcastle. I'll follow it and maybe I'll be able to go there myself one day and have a drink together at Pein. You should have one. All the best, see you soon. Ciao. Ciao. Yes, he said a lot of good things about it, right? The thing about Pein, a good team, probably doesn't fit into your diet plan. No, I don't know, it's beer-related. Yes. Yes. Yes. No, I drink, no, I don't drink. You're out. I'm out. Just water. Yes, exactly. I'm out. That's not for me. You mentioned the kitchen, especially because you have a special diet plan. How do you manage? Very well. Really, it's good in Germany too, I have to say. But here too, no problem at all. I think every wish you have will be fulfilled. That's why it's very pleasant and not complicated when I'm at Feinisse. You talked about this project earlier; it's a bit long-term, too; you want to stay a bit longer. What are the goals you discussed, especially regarding the club? We've now qualified for the Champions League again, as we talked about it. Um, are there any other goals beyond that? I think the project is something really cool and I think you can see now that the coach has been here for years and I think the Grube Kern team has been here for years and the club is always bringing in new players, like me for example. And I think that's the great thing about it, I think the path the club should take is what you've seen in the last two years or in general in the last few years, I think there's something new every year and I think if we manage to qualify for the Champions League in the Premier League twice in a row, I think that's statement enough and shows which path we're already on and where we want to go and then I think if we manage to keep up the level in the Premier League where it's so close now, where there are so many games, I think it feels like there's a supposed top team every year that doesn't make it to the top. Um, I think that's enough and I think it shows the direction the club wants to go and um, yes, I thought that was the interesting thing, the cool thing is, it's another cool big club. St. James Park is one of the most atmospheric stadiums, I can tell you that. What is it that pushes you from the stands? Everyone who has played here says that, even in the division, everyone said that this is actually the coolest away game in terms of the atmosphere and everyone said it was really crazy. That's why I'm really looking forward to it. I'm very excited. They've all set the bar very high, but what I've noticed so far when you walk through the city, everyone is crazy about the club. And I think you've said it again now, I think you'll notice that when you walk into the stadium here. Yes, that the people are excited. Club. [Music] What role can Newcastle United play in the Champions League without saying that they want to win it? But they can win it because that's how the system works. So, you can of course play in the playoffs or play in the knockout round, or progress, more easily than if you play over a full season with 38 games. Then you obviously have to show consistency, like teams like Manchester City and Liverpool have done in recent years, who of course also play at a different level, but you can still go far in the Champions League. What do you think, what do you dare to do?

 

Question. Making a prediction isn't that easy. Just now, as someone who hasn't played in the web competition yet. Um, but you, I think you saw in the group stage last year, I think it's great. I think the mode makes the whole competition much more interesting, because there were, yes, I think I saw last year, a lot of teams that supposedly wouldn't have been in the top 8 if you had predicted it, suddenly there and I think that shows the mode perfectly that a lot is possible and where it will go. Hopefully far, right? I can't say right now, I find it difficult to make a prediction. Um, but yes, if you make it through the group stage, like you did last year, then I think that's something you can build on. Speaking of really looking forward to it, we talked about the Christmas period. I can say that it is a special time. Are you also looking forward to the Christmas season, when there will probably be less free time, but a lot of football and a lot of traveling? Yes, it was, it is something nice. I think up until now I have only really known Christmas as always being free. That will not be the case this time. The family has already talked about everyone coming here to Newcastle. So this year, for the first time, Christmas will not be celebrated in Bremen, but here. Yes, I think that is what makes it special and unique and that somehow shows the attraction that it is the top league and it is the only league that is actually continuing to play. And yes, I only really know it from television, that when you have free time, you watch the games and I think it is great to be part of it yourself and, yes, a very special time, which I think you can then combine very nicely with the nice family time and the games, hopefully those that are successful. You just mentioned the family, they were there right at the beginning, in the first few days, not now, but will be there more often too. Yes, well, my dad goes there every week, my mum, because he likes the Premier League. Yes, exactly. He just likes to watch every one of my games. He also likes to go to every away stadium. In Germany, he was everywhere at every game. There are new stadiums here too. Yes, but I don't know how often they'll be there. They're not here right now. But my friends are here right now, for example. Well, actually, I'll probably always have visitors here, which you'll really like too, because I'm someone who likes being around people and, especially now in the early days abroad, there are lots of things that you have to get for yourself, which is always good for support, and I don't even know whether my parents will be coming this week or next week. They will definitely come in the next few weeks, I think. And they're really looking forward to it, and yes, the connection isn't that easy from Bremen. But that won't be the attacking strategy, as you said 433, that's one that Eddie Hau has also practiced over the years. How did he see you there, or how exactly does he see you there? What can you bring to the table with your game that, for example, my predecessors didn't have? The conversations were basically like this: he said that he definitely sees me in the new position. But of course always the same way I played in Stuttgart or wherever. That I drop back a lot and have a lot of balls at my feet. That was very important to him, yes, that the lads now I notice in training, that they pass me at my feet, especially around the 16-yard box, that I pass the ball through or that I have an eye for my teammates. Um, yes, I think that these topics have always been very important. I think he often emphasized that I am a very creative player and that we also need this creativity. And um, yes, I think with that, um, now in the first few games, I noticed that the boys definitely want to play and want to play football and have power and pass to me a lot and I think, yes, in the first few highlights there were only three, of course it's difficult to say now, right? But from a feeling point of view, it was really good and it was really like, hey, I can also bring my strengths to you. Um, because it is also allowed from me, because it is also allowed for me to let myself go, to fill up the midfield in certain situations, to drop into certain half-spaces

 

n can let it go and that is exactly the idea that I have of my positioning and my style of play. What expectations or, let's say, goals do you perhaps have of yourself regarding your game? At 23 you can't be completely complete, of course, but especially in the faster league, in a more intensive league, that means quicker decision-making, maybe also looking to finish quicker, becoming even more of a goal threat than in Stuttgart. Yes, those are points that you mentioned. I think those are things that I'm working on, things that we're already working on a lot. We also looked at a lot of scenes from me in Stuttgart to see what I could have done better, how I could have created more dangerous situations, create space and, yes, I think it's important for me to increase the speed of my intensity, the speed of my sprints and I think if you do that and get used to it, then you'll reach a good level. And yes, I think that if you can manage the league here in terms of intensity and football, then I think the world will be your oyster. And yes, I'm really looking forward to this project and to reaching a new level because I think I can definitely achieve it here and I'll get to the next level here. And yes, that's what appeals to me so much about the job. We've talked a lot about football and I know that you're a fashionable type too, a bit of a departure from the football pitch. My black and white appearance today suits the club better. We don't want to talk about me, but about you. How important is fashion to you? It's just a topic that interests me a lot in football and I think fashion is cool and I enjoy it and my working day usually goes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and after that I have other topics that interest me and then topics like fashion and things like that and things that interest me, that I enjoy, which I also see as a hobby and where I find a good balance. Because it's also quite nice to get out of the football world and slip into a different bubble and it's nice. I have fun with it. I quite like it. It doesn't have to appeal to everyone. I also say that people have different tastes. That's the nice thing about it, that everyone can wear what they want. I like my things and I think a lot of people like them too, but probably just as many don't. That's why football is completely fine with me. Everyone is allowed to have their own opinion, but it's definitely a topic that concerns us a lot. Is there perhaps a message you would like to send to the Newcastle fans? Perhaps to conclude with a football match. Return the gift. Okay, I was just wondering. No, but you, I'm just looking forward to this time. I'm looking forward to experiencing something new. That's always important to me in life, to experience something new, and yes, I'm here. I'm experiencing something new. New country, new league, new fans, awesome club, awesome stadium. I also think the kits look great when we come back for the match. That's why I'm incredibly excited about it. Very nice. We're happy for you. Thank you very much for taking the time, and I'd like to say, see you soon here in Newcastle and at St. James Park. We'll stay tuned with Nick Woltemade and, of course, with the Premier League on Sky on Tour. [Music]


HTT is that you?

Link to post
Share on other sites
Stal

Stal

Posted
Posted
20 minutes ago, Skeletor said:

 

There are lots of gay athletes and a lot of them had girlfriends/wives before they came out due to the pressure to be "straight" in sport.

 

Yeah, it's daft and should be unnecessary in this day and age but this. I don't know if in German football it's culturally pressured too. I know their LGBT+ rights are really good in Germany but I don't know if that's echoed in the terraces over there.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share
Go to topic listing
×
×
  • Create New...