Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirms Yoane Wissa return after international break

Eddie Howe has confirmed that Newcastle United summer signing Yoane Wissa is expected to make his long-awaited debut after the upcoming international break.

The Congolese striker, recruited from Brentford, has been sidelined with a knee injury sustained while representing DR Congo, delaying his introduction to the St James’ Park crowd.

Wissa, 29, has been undergoing treatment for several weeks but has avoided surgery, a development the club views as a significant relief.

Speaking on Tuesday, 23 September, ahead of Newcastle’s League Cup third-round tie against Bradford City, Howe provided an encouraging update on the forward’s progress.

“He is here receiving treatment, no surgery is required,” Howe told reporters at his pre-match press conference.

“We hope he will be fit and available for the first game after the break.”

That timetable points to a potential debut on Saturday, 18 October, when Newcastle host Brighton in the Premier League.

The fixture, part of the campaign’s eighth round, could finally give supporters the chance to see Wissa in black and white for the first time.

The injury, picked up during international duty, was a major setback for both player and club.

Newcastle had moved swiftly to secure Wissa from Brentford during the summer window, confident in his proven attacking threat and versatility.

However, before he could feature in any competitive match, the striker was struck by misfortune.

“It is frustrating for him to come in and get injured on international duty,” Howe acknowledged.

“But he’s positive and motivated. He knows he has a big role to play this season.”

The forward’s absence has been keenly felt as Newcastle balance the demands of the Premier League, domestic cup competitions and European fixtures.

Wissa’s ability to operate both centrally and out wide was one of the qualities that convinced the Magpies to bring him in, and Howe has repeatedly underlined his importance in the months ahead.

While supporters have had to wait longer than anticipated, the news that surgery will not be required has eased concerns of a lengthy lay-off.

For Wissa, the focus now is on building fitness and ensuring he can contribute immediately upon his return.

Wissa’s move to Newcastle marked the next chapter in a career that has seen him establish himself as a reliable Premier League performer.

During his time at Brentford, he earned a reputation for sharp finishing, intelligent movement, and the ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.

That pedigree is exactly what Newcastle were hoping to add to their forward line.

As the Magpies prepare for the coming fixtures, Howe’s squad has been stretched by injuries in various departments.

The return of an experienced and dynamic forward like Wissa could provide a timely boost as the club seeks to maintain momentum across multiple competitions.

For Newcastle supporters, the anticipation of Wissa’s debut continues to grow.

Should his recovery stay on track, the Brighton match could be the beginning of what the club hopes will be a productive and impactful spell for the Congolese international at St James’ Park.