How many games Yoane Wissa will miss for Newcastle United - including injury and possible AFCON call

Yoane Wissa is set to miss at least three Newcastle United fixtures in December due to the African Cup of Nations - and that's even if he returns before then, with the player's injury return on ice.

In a last minute dash, Toon chiefs finally got their man on transfer deadline day in a deal worth £55million. Two bids had previously been rejected for Wissa, who pushed for a Brentford move all summer. But then, just as NUFC striker woes looked to be over, the player got injured while on international duty with DR Congo, and the rest, as they say, is history. Wissa has missed every game since signing - and last week a return date for Brighton after the break was pushed back another two weeks, leaving many questioning when they will see their new No.9 again.

Eddie Howe on Yoane Wissa injury

Speaking last week, head coach Howe said: "He went to see a specialist again [Thursday] just for a check-up on his knee, probably think it'll be more eight weeks than six, so maybe a slight delay, no reoccurrence, no problem, just maybe slightly longer.”

Yoane Wissa’s AFCON conundrum

One area for Newcastle to consider is the upcoming AFCON. Wissa is set to miss a hectic festive period this winter as he represents DR Congo at the tournament. This is, of course, if he is fit by then.

Wissa has already missed seven games for United, including two in the Champions League. And, given he won't be back for Brighton, as previously predicted, he is almost certain to miss another three games next month, with the four after that, running up to the November break, also likely at risk. Missing that set of games for the Magpies would anger many, especially if DR Congo come calling for the player in December.

His first AFCON game is on December 23 - ruling him out of Premier League clashes against Chelsea, Manchester United and Burnley. Any further fixtures missed will depend on DR Congo’s progress at AFCON.

The final will take place on January 18 - three days before Newcastle’s Champions League fixture with PSV Eindhoven.

Yoane Wissa’s first words and ONLY words since signing for NUFC

Wissa said after the move: “I’m really happy to be here and to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League. I’m very, very excited to put on the black and white shirt. I’ve got dreams, I’ve got faith, and now I will do my best to make it all happen. I can’t wait to get started.

Eddie Howe added: “Yoane is a player who we have admired for some time and we’re delighted to have him on board. He brings proven Premier League quality, demonstrated not only by his goalscoring output but also the crucial work he does for the team. Yoane’s style of play will excite our supporters and complement our style of play - he has pace, power and an excellent work rate. He immediately makes us stronger.”

Newcastle United signing of Yoane Wissa announcement on transfer deadline day

The Magpies confirmed the £55million arrival shortly after the 7pm deadline, with Isak also getting his switch to Liverpool. Newcastle fans breathed a sigh of relief as the two most turbulent transfer sagas of the summer drew to a close.

“Newcastle United can confirm the transfer deadline day signing of forward Yoane Wissa from Brentford for an undisclosed fee, subject to Premier League approval,” a club announcement read. “The 28-year-old, who was born in France and represents DR Congo at international level, has finalised a long-term deal to become the sixth summer arrival at St. James’ Park.

“Yoane’s career began with French side Châteauroux, where he progressed through the youth system before making a switch to Angers in 2016. Loan spells at Laval and Ajaccio followed, but it was upon joining then Ligue 2 side Lorient in January 2018 that he began to make his mark.

“Yoane helped Lorient reach the French top-flight, where he went on to score 10 times, before earning his move to newly-promoted Brentford in 2021. The striker quickly established himself in the Premier League and departs the Bees with 49 goals from 149 games to his name in all competitions, including a personal high of 19 league goals last term. Yoane will wear the number 9 shirt for Newcastle United.”