Newcastle United invested around £55million to sign Yoane Wissa from Brentford on deadline day, hoping he would provide immediate Premier League goals while fellow newcomer Nick Woltemade developed.
Woltemade made an instant impact, scoring on his Newcastle debut on Saturday as Eddie Howe’s side secured their first win of the season. Meanwhile, Wissa missed the match against Wolves after sustaining a knee injury while representing DR Congo during the international break.
Speaking after the Wolves game, Howe provided the latest update on Wissa’s condition. Unfortunately for Newcastle, there is still no new information on the forward’s fitness, according to Keith Downie of Sky Sports. This comes as a concern with the crucial Champions League clash against Barcelona coming up on Thursday.
Craig Hope of The Daily Mail reported earlier on Saturday that Wissa remains a major doubt for the Barcelona game.
Barcelona, too, are facing injury issues ahead of the tie. Defender Alejandro Balde has been sidelined since earlier this month, while teenage talent Lamine Yamal is also doubtful. The Spain international missed Barcelona’s recent game against Valencia due to an injury sustained during the club football break.
Ahead of the Valencia match, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick commented on Yamal’s situation, expressing frustration over the lack of proper rest between matches and concern for his players’ wellbeing. He highlighted the quality of Spain’s team and players, noting that careful management of young talents is crucial.
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