Yoane Wissa injury delays Newcastle debut until October

Newcastle United coach Eddie Howe stated that he expects new forward Yoane Wissa to return to action after the end of the October international window. The DR Congo international is yet to make his debut for Newcastle after his big-money move from Premier League side Brentford.

Eddie Howe on Yoane Wissa:

“He’s receiving treatment and no operation is needed. I think we’re looking at the other side of the international break. We hope he can be fit and available for that first game.” pic.twitter.com/WDuwIMyhZZ

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 23, 2025

Wissa scored twice for DR Congo during their 2026 World Cup qualifying match against South Sudan and Senegal but was injured in the process. Magpies coach Howe stated that Wissa is strictly following a fast recovery program. “He is receiving treatment; no surgery is required. We are targeting the end of the international break for his return. We believe he will be fit and available for his first game.”

The new development might be bad news for DR Congo as they hope to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974. They are currently second in Group B with 16 points, two points behind leaders Senegal. DR Congo will play Togo and Sudan in their last two qualifier games, and missing Wissa is expected to be a huge blow to the Leopards.

Howe said he is optimistic about Wissa’s return as Newcastle United continue to struggle in their opening Premier League matches. “We haven’t even seen him on the pitch yet because he came back injured, which is frustrating given the money spent. But it is not a long-term injury. We will manage the next few games, and he will be back.”

Wissa, 29, spent four seasons at Brentford after signing from French Ligue 1 side Lorient.

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