“I will remain a Stuttgart fan”

Nick Woltemade has thanked VfB Stuttgart and explained his move to Newcastle United.

After his move to Bayern Munich fell through, Nick Woltemade ended up leaving VfB Stuttgart for Newcastle United a few days before the transfer window closed in a deal reportedly worth €90 million.

The Germany international has now taken to Instagram to thank his former club and explain his decision.

“I can only thank everyone for the past year. For the moments we experienced together. I am grateful to Stuttgart for allowing me to develop as I have. Many thanks to VfB, many thanks to all the staff, all the coaches, the entire team. Thank you for the wonderful time,” Woltemade said in an Instagram video.

“I’m not asking anyone to necessarily understand my decision, and I can understand every VfB fan who says: ‘Hey, that was your club at heart. You said you were a Stuttgart fan.’ Yes, I will remain a Stuttgart fan, and I will watch every Stuttgart game I can,” Woltemade added.

“But I am also an athlete, and this is my profession. I decided to take the next step I wanted to take. I am really looking forward to the challenge. As a footballer, I want to achieve the highest possible level. I am now playing in the Champions League, I am playing in the best league in the world, and I am excited about this step.”