Anthony Elanga has spoken candidly about his mixed start at Newcastle United, vowing to stay patient and focused as he adjusts to life on Tyneside. The Swedish international joined the Magpies from Nottingham Forest for £55 million this summer, but has yet to consistently hit the heights expected after such a major move.
While Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw have quickly made their mark since arriving, Elanga has found his rhythm harder to establish. His strong display against Union Saint-Gilloise offered a glimpse of his potential, but a quieter performance against former club Forest highlighted his inconsistency.
Elanga, however, remains optimistic. Speaking to Expressen while on international duty with Sweden, the winger insisted he is improving under Eddie Howe and will soon deliver the end product Newcastle fans are waiting for.
Elanga: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint”
The 23-year-old urged patience as he adapts to Howe’s system and a new set of teammates.
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint. It’s just about staying focused. I know how good I am and how good I can be. When I get the chance, I have to take it. When a goal comes in, it will click. It’s a new system, new players, and they’ll get comfortable with me and I with them.” — Anthony Elanga
Elanga has featured in ten games so far this season, starting six. He believes his breakthrough is only a matter of time and credits Howe’s man-management for keeping him on the right path.
Praise for Eddie Howe
Elanga was full of admiration for Howe, describing him as the most influential manager he has worked with.
“A fantastic coach who I’m learning a lot from. For me, he is the best coach I have ever had. He helps me a lot on and off the field. I feel like I am getting better. We’ll have 60 games this year, and the coach is smart and knows what he’s doing. The way we play takes a lot of strain on the body. It requires intensity. He tries to keep everyone fresh and ready. We’ve won games, that’s the most important thing.” — Anthony Elanga
Stats snapshot – Anthony Elanga 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Anthony Elanga |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 10 |
| Starts | 6 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
source: sofascore match data – 6 October 2025
The figures underline his slow attacking return, though his intensity and work rate have been praised. Elanga believes his first Newcastle goal will spark a surge in confidence and consistency.
Elanga and Isak on similar paths
Elanga now joins up with the Sweden squad for World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland and Kosovo, where he is expected to play alongside former Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Both players are still searching for their best form this season.
Isak, who moved to Liverpool on deadline day, missed most of pre-season and has endured a slow start at Anfield. Like Elanga, he hopes international duty can provide the spark needed to rediscover top-level rhythm.
Analyst verdict: patience required
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Elanga’s start is not unusual for a big signing:
“Elanga’s fee inevitably raised expectations, but adaptation takes time. He has the physical attributes and mentality to thrive at Newcastle. Eddie Howe’s coaching is key — his faith in Elanga should pay off once the player settles fully into the system.”
Key insights
- Anthony Elanga joined Newcastle from Nottingham Forest for £55m.
- The winger has 10 appearances this season but is still chasing his first goal.
- He praised Eddie Howe as “the best coach” he has ever had.
- Elanga says the Premier League season is “a marathon, not a sprint.”
- Sweden duty with Alexander Isak could provide a timely confidence boost.
What’s next for Elanga and Newcastle?
Elanga’s immediate focus is on helping Sweden take vital points in World Cup qualifying. Strong performances could give him the confidence to kick-start his Newcastle career when club action resumes.
For Newcastle, Howe will hope his £55m signing begins to deliver more consistently in front of goal, especially as the fixture list intensifies. With patience and persistence, Elanga could yet become as impactful as Newcastle’s other summer additions.
👉 Do you think Anthony Elanga will prove his £55m worth at Newcastle — or is patience running thin already?
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