Yoane Wissa's journey to becoming a Newcastle United hero is a tale of resilience and determination. A star is born, or so it seems, as Wissa takes center stage in the Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven.
The iconic number nine shirt, a symbol of legendary strikers at Newcastle, now rests on Wissa's shoulders. Following in the footsteps of Alan Shearer, Jackie Milburn, and other greats, Wissa is the latest addition to this prestigious lineage. And he didn't disappoint in the 3-0 victory at St James' Park.
The night began with a banner urging the team to create history, and Wissa answered the call. He not only scored early but also set up the second goal with his relentless pressing, leaving PSV's defense in disarray. The crowd's standing ovation as he was substituted said it all.
Wissa's road to this moment hasn't been easy. A knee injury while representing DR Congo in September added to a disrupted pre-season after his move from Brentford. His start at Newcastle was marred by a serious injury, a mental challenge for any new player. But head coach Eddie Howe's faith in him paid off, as Wissa finally showcased his true potential.
His performance against PSV was a turning point. Howe's pre-match call for Wissa to 'max out' was answered with a dominant display, leading the press against a naive PSV. Teammate Harvey Barnes acknowledged Wissa's tough start, having experienced similar struggles himself. But with his first Champions League goal, Wissa proved he belongs at this level.
But here's the twist: Wissa's style differs from the towering Nick Woltemade. Opta's stats reveal Wissa's unique ability to make cross option runs, ranking first among Premier League forwards. This, combined with his runs in behind, makes him a versatile threat.
Howe's appreciation for Wissa's time at Brentford is evident, and his £55 million price tag is justified by his Premier League experience. As Newcastle prepares to face Paris St-Germain, Wissa's aggression and determination make him a likely starter. With a playoff spot secured and a chance to advance automatically, the team is poised for a historic moment.
The upcoming clash with PSG evokes memories of a controversial penalty decision in 2023. While revenge isn't on the agenda, the motivation is clear. As Barnes says, Newcastle knows its capabilities against top teams. The stage is set for Wissa and Newcastle to write the next chapter in their Champions League journey. Will they rise to the occasion?
