Anthony Elanga says he’s using criticism of his slow start at Newcastle United as fuel to prove himself in the Premier League, insisting that “everything can change with minutes.”
In a new interview with SVT, the Swedish forward addressed his early struggles since completing a €62 million move from Nottingham Forest last summer. Despite arriving with high expectations, Elanga has yet to score or assist in 17 appearances across all competitions for Eddie Howe’s side.
The 22-year-old, however, remains optimistic. He believes consistent playing time will help him rediscover the rhythm that made him one of Forest’s most exciting players over the past two seasons, when he produced 11 goals and 21 assists in 82 games.
Elanga unfazed by early criticism
The hefty price tag and Newcastle’s lack of productivity on the right wing have placed Elanga under early scrutiny. Still, the winger insists the criticism only motivates him more.
“In football, things happen quickly,” Elanga told SVT. “You can play one, two games and then start on the bench ten games in a row. So, you just have to be ready all the time.”
He added that with multiple competitions still in play, he expects his opportunities to come:
“We have the League Cup, the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Premier League. It’s important for me to be healthy so the opportunities will come. You always get hungry; you always want to start and help the team. When you start and play several games, you build momentum.”
Elanga’s adaptation period at St. James’ Park has been complicated by Newcastle’s attacking rotation and the competition for places. Howe has often favoured Gordon and Jacob Murphy in wide positions, with Elanga limited mostly to cameo appearances. Still, those inside the club reportedly admire his work ethic and professionalism, believing his breakthrough is only a matter of time once confidence and chemistry develop. source: Transfermarkt data – 12 November 2025 Those numbers underscore the need for minutes — but also show Elanga’s steady involvement in buildup play and defensive transition, two traits Howe values highly.
Stat (2025/26)
Anthony Elanga
Appearances
17
Goals
0
Assists
1
Minutes Played
736
Pass Accuracy
81%
Our View: Patience will pay off
In our view, Elanga’s mentality is exactly what Newcastle need in a challenging campaign. The €62m fee inevitably adds pressure, but it’s worth remembering that young attacking players often take months to adapt to tactical systems and new environments. His self-belief and fitness focus suggest a player determined to prove value, not one shrinking from the spotlight.
If Howe can find a consistent role for him through the festive period, Elanga could yet turn the narrative — especially with multiple competitions offering rotation opportunities.
Key Insights
- Elanga joined Newcastle from Nottingham Forest in a €62m deal.
- He has yet to register a goal or assist in 17 matches.
- The Swede insists criticism motivates him and minutes will change everything.
- Newcastle still view him as a long-term solution on the right wing.
- Elanga previously produced 32 goal contributions in 82 games for Forest.
What’s Next
Elanga will hope to feature more prominently after the international break, with Newcastle facing a congested fixture list that includes the Champions League, FA Cup, and a crucial Premier League run. Howe is expected to rotate his attack, potentially giving the Swede the platform to respond to his critics on the pitch.
👉 Newcastle fans — will patience with Elanga pay off, or should Howe look elsewhere for right-wing inspiration?
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