Eddie Howe urges Newcastle to stay patient as DR Congo star Yoane Wissa nears return
Eddie Howe has cautioned that Newcastle United must manage expectations with Yoane Wissa as the DR Congo international edges closer to a long-awaited debut.
The £55 million summer signing from Brentford has yet to play a minute for the Magpies after suffering a knee injury in September, but is nearing full fitness.
Wissa, who joined amid high anticipation, could feature in next weekend’s Premier League clash against West Ham United.
However, Howe has warned against rushing the forward back into action, stressing that he needs a careful buildup similar to a pre-season programme.
“Yes. I believe so. I think if you look at Yoane’s situation, he will need almost a pre-season,” Howe said at his press conference.
“Pre-season schedules that we give to players will be six weeks. And we do that for a reason, so we can build them up and they can play in various games, and then they’re ready to perform.”
The Magpies boss added that the club’s medical team is taking every precaution to avoid setbacks.
“So I’m not saying he won’t play for six weeks. But I think to get to his very best level, it will probably take that time.
“But firstly, before we get to that stage, we need to get him fully 100% fit and then we can really push him. He’s on that road.
“He’s been to see a specialist yesterday. That was a routine appointment.”
🚨 Eddie Howe says Yoane Wissa is going to need a 6-week “pre-season” training regime when he returns from his knee injury.
🇨🇩 Howe says that doesn’t mean he won’t play during that time, but patience is going to be required with the forward.
👨🏻⚕️ The 29-year-old saw a specialist… pic.twitter.com/EDIzGAkiru— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) October 24, 2025
Wissa was initially expected back for the clash against Brighton but was handed extra recovery time after a minor setback.
Newcastle’s caution follows lessons learned from Alexander Isak’s fitness struggles at Liverpool, where a lack of pre-season preparation led to persistent issues.
Howe confirmed Wissa remains “on track” for early November but stressed the focus remains on this weekend’s clash with Fulham at St James’ Park.
“You go back to last year, and it was two disappointing results against Fulham. We know the quality of their team. Marco has done a brilliant job there,” Howe said.
