Newcastle United suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brighton in their recent Premier League away match, raising questions about the future of one player. Despite a goal from Nick Woltemade, Brighton’s Danny Welbeck secured the win. The substitutions made by Eddie Howe, and one player’s lack of involvement, suggest a shift in the team’s dynamic. This could indicate a potential departure for the player in question.
Joe Willock future at Newcastle United in doubt
The midfield trio of Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, and Bruno Guimaraes all started for Newcastle against Brighton. However, Eddie Howe’s tactical changes saw Lewis Miley replace Joelinton at halftime. This substitution proved fruitful, as Miley’s cross led to Woltemade’s equalizing goal.
Later in the game, Jacob Ramsey was brought on for Tonali, a decision that further sidelined Joe Willock. To add to this, young striker William Osula replaced Bruno Guimaraes, meaning every attacking option saw game time except for Willock. As a result, Willock remained on the bench.
Newcastle United’s midfield evolution under Eddie Howe
Joe Willock’s contract with Newcastle runs until the summer of 2027. However, if Newcastle aims to maximize any potential transfer fee, this summer could be the time to sell the player. Willock initially joined Newcastle from Arsenal in 2021 for £25 million, following a successful loan spell.
During that loan spell in 2020-21, Willock scored in seven consecutive games, becoming the youngest player in Premier League history to achieve this. This led to Newcastle making him a permanent signing. The subsequent arrival of new midfielders has impacted Willock’s first-team opportunities.
Willock started in 31 Premier League games during Newcastle’s Champions League qualification season in 2022-23. Since then, his playing time has decreased. He made just five starts in the 2023-24 season due to injuries, and 11 appearances last time out.
This season, he has only played 87 minutes in the league. His absence from the game against Brighton suggests his time at the club may be coming to an end. The decision by Eddie Howe not to use him speaks volumes about his current standing within the squad.
