Newcastle United’s Premier League campaign has started with more frustration than fluidity.
A goalless draw with Aston Villa on opening day saw Eddie Howe’s side look the more dangerous outfit, but they lacked the cutting edge to secure three points.
Stalemates against Leeds and Bournemouth then further highlighted the side’s lack of rhythm in the final third. Against Leeds, Newcastle were wasteful despite moments of control, and at Bournemouth, Howe’s decision to trial a more defensive 3-4-2-1 setup blunted their attacking potential even further.
The Magpies have generated just 4.6 expected goals (xG) across their first five league fixtures – a figure better only than the three promoted sides, Wolves, and Aston Villa.
The midweek 4-1 win against Bradford City in the Carabao Cup was a welcome tonic, with a strong XI fielded to sharpen patterns in attack.
Yet with a Champions League trip to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise before facing Arsenal on Sunday, Howe must find a way to get more out of his new-look attack.
The question is whether his summer signing in attack, Nick Woltemade, can be trusted to lead the line consistently so early in his Premier League career.
Why Woltemade needs time to adapt
Newcastle made a statement when they secured Nick Woltemade this summer, fending off Bayern Munich, who had three bids rejected for the striker.
Standing at 1.98m and fresh from a 12-goal Bundesliga season with Werder Bremen, Woltemade brings a blend of aerial presence and technical quality.
He also impressed for Germany at the U21 Euros and earned senior caps in recent international fixtures, including an assist in the 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland.
He introduced himself to the St James’ Park crowd with a debut goal against Wolves, but his performances have shown the reality of adapting to English football.
In the Bundesliga last season, Woltemade was involved in 14 goals across 28 matches, averaging 4.38 shot-creating actions per 90, per FBref.
His ability to progress the ball is also evident, carrying it forward 26 times per 90 minutes and adding 2.89 progressive passes, per FBref.
These numbers highlight a striker who is comfortable linking play rather than just finishing chances. Yet so far in England, those qualities have been less visible.
He also contributes defensively, averaging 0.56 tackles and 1.28 blocks per 90 last season, which shows that he is willing to press. However, Howe will be aware that a club-record signing will be judged primarily on goals, and right now, Woltemade still looks like a player learning the rhythm and relentlessness of the Premier League.
Patience is needed, but Newcastle may not be able to wait if they want results quickly.
Osula can be the difference for Newcastle
That’s where William Osula comes in.
The 22-year-old striker, signed from Sheffield United for £15m, has flown somewhat under the radar since his arrival.
He made 25 appearances across all competitions, scoring five and assisting twice, but crucially showed signs of being the “natural #9” that Newcastle desperately need, as described by U23 scout Antonio Mango.
Osula was nearly allowed to leave on deadline day, with Frankfurt circling, but Newcastle pulled the plug following Yoane Wissa’s injury on international duty. It already looks a shrewd decision.
The Dane scored his first Premier League goal last season against Ipswich last season, and this campaign has already opened his account with a strike in the loss to Liverpool. Midweek against Bradford, he made a statement.
Match Rating
8.2
Goals
2
Shots on Target
4
Dribbles
3 (2 successful)
Touches
39
Passes
16 (15 accurate)
Ground Duels
11 (5 won)
This was a centre-forward performance full of hunger, sharpness, and clinical finishing – precisely what Newcastle have lacked in their league fixtures.
His pressing from the front also allowed the midfield to play higher up, easing pressure on the defence. For a side starved of attacking fluency, Osula represents the kind of direct, instinctive forward who can turn half-chances into goals.
A partnership potential with Woltemade, once the German fully settles, could give Newcastle multiple tactical options.
One towering, playmaking striker alongside a more mobile, poacher-type forward. With tough opponents on the horizon, Howe must balance pragmatism with ambition.
Yet if Newcastle truly want to ignite their season, unleashing Osula more consistently might be the spark that transforms their attack.