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<p>Is €75m a wise investment?</p>
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<p><img alt="Newcastle record signing Woltemade eases Isak loss despite defeat to Arsenal" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/woltemade-spotlight2-1759081968-178872.png" title="Newcastle record signing Woltemade eases Isak loss despite defeat to Arsenal"></img></p>
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<p>Nick Woltemade had already taken some pressure off his shoulders by scoring his first goal for Newcastle United against Wolves, a crucial strike that clinched a 1-0 victory two weeks ago. Returning to St James' Park on Sunday for a thrilling encounter against Arsenal, Newcastle was in dire need of goals — having netted only three times in their first five matches. The burden to find the net rested on Woltemade, the most expensive player in the club's history. He showcased his readiness to step up in the absence of fan favorite Alexander Isak, delivering a commendable performance despite the team's 2-1 loss.</p>
<h2>Player Spotlight: Nick Woltemade</h2>
<p>Woltemade exhibited some skillful footwork early in the match that brought back memories of Dimitar Berbatov. While he may not possess blazing speed, he effectively utilizes his impressive height, close control, and aerial strength to lead the attack. In the 35th minute, he delivered exactly what head coach Eddie Howe hoped for, putting the hosts ahead with a well-executed header from a Sandro Tonali cross following a cleverly designed short corner. Woltemade demonstrated strength that Gabriel Magalhães lacked, and despite the Brazilian's protests, their minor tussle was within the bounds of fair physicality. Their ensuing disagreement during the VAR review highlighted Woltemade's spirited character, as he declined to shake the Arsenal defender's hand.</p>
<p><img alt="Player Spotlight: Nick Woltemade" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/player-focus-woltemade-1759082199-178874.png?lm=1759082214" title="Player Spotlight: Nick Woltemade" width="503"></img></p>
<p>With the crowd behind him, he linked well with Anthony Gordon and Tonali, each successful pass drawing cheers from the St James' Park supporters. His hold-up play posed a challenge for Arsenal, with Cristhian Mosquera unable to wrest the ball from him. His first-half performance was impeccable, prompting Mikel Arteta to substitute in William Saliba at halftime to counter him. Just 34 seconds into the second half, Woltemade had a remarkable chance for his second goal but hit the crossbar while off balance. Thankfully for Newcastle, he was deemed offside. Still, his presence troubled Arsenal's defense significantly. Although his influence waned in the second half as Arsenal seized possession, his earlier contributions had set the tone. When he was substituted in the 67th minute, the roar from the crowd celebrated their new star, momentarily forgetting about his predecessor. Newcastle struggled in his absence, conceding two late goals, leading Howe to ponder whether he should have kept Woltemade on the pitch instead of replacing him with William Osula.</p>
<h2>Market Value Assessment</h2>
<p>There was initial debate regarding the fee paid by Newcastle, but reports confirm that the price was indeed €75 million. Woltemade has already netted two crucial opening goals, underscoring his significance to the team this season after the departure of Isak to Liverpool. Time will reveal how many more he can score as Newcastle aims for a top-five finish and a Champions League spot. His market value currently stands at €30 million and is likely to rise in the coming weeks. Woltemade surely feels pleased with his start at Tyneside, and it seems clear that Newcastle is satisfied with their investment as well.</p>
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