Eddie Howe rarely gives too much away when discussing his tactical plans, but a recent response to a seemingly simple question has sparked real intrigue among Newcastle United supporters. When asked whether he would consider playing Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade together, the Newcastle boss offered a carefully measured answer — one that many believe contained a significant hint about the club’s attacking future.
While Howe stopped short of confirming anything outright, his comments suggested that Newcastle are actively exploring more flexible attacking systems, particularly as the season enters a demanding phase filled with injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion.
For a manager who values structure, balance and control, that in itself speaks volumes.
The Question That Sparked Speculation
The question put to Howe was straightforward: could Newcastle realistically deploy both Wissa and Woltemade in the same starting XI?
Rather than dismissing the idea, Howe acknowledged that modern football increasingly requires adaptability and that certain combinations could be used depending on the opposition, game state and availability of players.
“We’re always looking at ways to get our best attacking players on the pitch,” Howe explained. “But it has to work for the team, not just individuals.”
That final line — not just individuals — was telling. It suggested that while the idea is clearly under consideration, any decision would be rooted in tactical cohesion rather than excitement alone.
Why Wissa and Woltemade Is Such an Interesting Combination
On paper, Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade offer very different profiles — and that contrast is precisely why fans are intrigued.
Wissa is sharp, explosive and thrives in tight spaces. He’s comfortable drifting wide, attacking the half-spaces, and pressing aggressively from the front. His ability to arrive late in the box and contribute goals without being a traditional number nine makes him a versatile threat.
Woltemade, on the other hand, brings physical presence, aerial dominance and intelligent link-up play. Standing tall and comfortable with his back to goal, he offers Newcastle something different — particularly against deep-lying defenses or teams that dominate set-piece battles.
Together, they represent a blend of movement and muscle, pace and patience — a pairing that could trouble a wide variety of Premier League defenses.
Eddie Howe’s Tactical Balancing Act
Howe’s biggest challenge this season has been maintaining balance amid relentless disruptions. Injuries to key players, especially in defense and midfield, have already forced him into difficult decisions. Adding another attacking variable into the mix only increases the complexity.
Historically, Howe has favored systems that ensure defensive solidity, often relying on one central striker supported by wide forwards and advanced midfielders. Deploying both Wissa and Woltemade together could signal a shift — either toward a two-striker setup or a hybrid system that allows one to drop deeper.
When asked about formations, Howe once again remained guarded.
“Football isn’t always about formations on paper,” he said. “It’s about roles, responsibilities, and how players interpret space.”
That statement alone has fueled further debate. Rather than thinking in terms of a rigid 4-4-2 or 3-5-2, Howe may be considering fluid attacking roles where Wissa drifts between lines while Woltemade anchors the attack.
What This Could Mean for Alexander Isak
Any discussion about Newcastle’s attack inevitably leads back to Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker remains central to Howe’s plans, and his presence complicates any potential reshuffle.
However, Howe has previously spoken about managing Isak’s workload carefully, particularly during congested periods. That opens the door to rotation, tactical variation, or even occasional experimentation without undermining Isak’s status.
Playing Wissa and Woltemade together could offer Howe an alternative attacking setup — one that preserves Isak while keeping Newcastle competitive and unpredictable.
In modern football, having multiple attacking structures is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Fixture Congestion and Squad Management
Another crucial factor behind Howe’s hint is the sheer volume of matches Newcastle face. Domestic competitions, European commitments and league fixtures place enormous physical demands on players — especially attackers who rely heavily on sharpness and intensity.
By developing confidence in alternative partnerships, Howe gives himself greater control over minutes, recovery and form. Rather than over-relying on one combination, Newcastle can adapt without a significant drop in quality.
Howe has consistently emphasized the importance of squad depth, not just in numbers but in functionality.
“It’s about trusting the whole group,” he noted. “Everyone has a role to play over the season.”
That philosophy aligns perfectly with the idea of Wissa and Woltemade featuring together — not as a permanent solution, but as a strategic option.
The Psychological Impact on Opponents
Beyond tactics, there is a psychological edge to unpredictability. Opposing managers spend hours preparing for Newcastle’s usual patterns of play. Introducing a new attacking dynamic forces them to rethink defensive plans — often at short notice.
A front line featuring Woltemade’s aerial threat and Wissa’s movement would demand different defensive profiles, potentially pulling defenders out of their comfort zones.
For Newcastle, that unpredictability could be invaluable in tight matches where fine margins decide outcomes.
Fans React to Howe’s Hint
Unsurprisingly, Newcastle supporters have seized on Howe’s comments. Social media has been buzzing with tactical diagrams, lineup suggestions and debates about whether the pairing could work.
Some fans see it as a bold evolution of Howe’s philosophy, while others urge caution, fearing it could leave the midfield exposed. Both perspectives reflect the growing expectations around the club — expectations that simply did not exist a few seasons ago.
The fact that this conversation is even happening is a sign of Newcastle’s progress.
Howe’s Commitment to Control
Perhaps the most important takeaway from Howe’s response is his repeated emphasis on control. Control of the game. Control of space. Control of expectations.
He understands that Newcastle’s ambition must be matched by discipline. Throwing attackers onto the pitch without structure would undermine everything the club has built.
That’s why his hint matters. It wasn’t reckless enthusiasm — it was measured possibility.
What Happens Next?
Whether Wissa and Woltemade actually start together remains to be seen. It may happen in a specific fixture, late in a game, or during a period of heavy rotation. Or it may remain a tactical idea reserved for the right moment.
What is clear is that Eddie Howe is thinking ahead. He is not simply reacting to problems — he is preparing solutions.
And for a Newcastle United side aiming to compete on multiple fronts, that forward thinking could prove decisive.