Overview
- Newcastle target a step toward the knockout phase in Leverkusen, as the hosts pursue a third straight Champions League win after beating Benfica and Manchester City.
- Leverkusen report near-full availability with Alejandro Grimaldo likely fit, Exequiel Palacios still out, and Robert Andrich back from suspension, with Jarell Quansah noting Woltemade’s strength holding the ball and danger in the box.
- Eddie Howe lauded Woltemade’s performances and personality, calling him brilliant and predicting more to come for the 23-year-old.
- Woltemade said he feels at home in Newcastle, focuses on himself, and hopes to score in Leverkusen after starting his Magpies career with seven goals in 19 competitive games, including a debut winner.
- After early criticism with Germany, Woltemade answered with goals against Northern Ireland, Luxembourg and Slovakia, bolstering his case for continued national-team inclusion.