Chelsea Legend John Terry Praises Elanga’s Impact at Newcastle

Chelsea legend John Terry has delivered a glowing verdict on Newcastle United winger Anthony Elanga following his performance in the Champions League against Barcelona.

Although Newcastle were beaten 2-1 at St James’ Park — with Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford scoring both goals for the visitors — Elanga’s bright display caught the eye. The Sweden international was direct, energetic and created chances that could easily have changed the outcome of the game.

Terry, watching the match closely, posted on Instagram during the game: “Elanga is rapid and made for this Newcastle team.”

Elanga seizes his opportunity

It has been a mixed start to life on Tyneside for Elanga since his £55m summer move. The 23-year-old struggled in his early appearances against Aston Villa and Liverpool, where he failed to make a significant impact and was subsequently dropped to the bench in favour of Jacob Murphy.

However, Eddie Howe recalled him for the Barcelona clash to inject pace into Newcastle’s attack. The move worked, with Elanga stretching the Spanish champions’ backline and repeatedly driving into dangerous areas. He produced two key passes and created one big chance, though Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes were unable to convert.

“Elanga is rapid and made for this Newcastle team.” — John Terry

Fans and teammates respond

Elanga was withdrawn just after the hour mark, a decision that drew groans from supporters who felt he was one of Newcastle’s liveliest attacking outlets. His performance, however, offered encouragement that he can become a vital player under Howe this season.

The timing could not be better for Newcastle, who have struggled for goals with Alexander Isak sidelined due to a contract dispute earlier this season. Anthony Gordon, playing out of position as a striker, has found goals difficult to come by, though he did end a 22-game drought with a strike against Barcelona.

Elanga Stats snapshot

Stat (2025/26)	Anthony Elanga
Appearances	5
Goals	0
Assists	0
Key Passes (vs Barcelona)	2
Big Chances Created (vs Barcelona)	1

source: sofascore match data – 19 September 2025

While Elanga’s goal contributions are yet to arrive, his creativity and pace are clear assets. With Nick Woltemade already leading the line, Elanga now has a natural striker to target — something that could soon translate into tangible returns.

Analyst verdict: a player built for Howe’s system

FootballPlace analyst John William believes Elanga’s style is tailor-made for Howe’s counter-attacking blueprint:

“Elanga’s direct running and willingness to take on defenders is exactly what Newcastle have been missing in recent weeks. He’s raw and still adapting to Howe’s intensity, but the Barcelona performance felt like his arrival moment. If he can add end product, that £55m price tag will soon start to look like value.”

Key insights

John Terry says Anthony Elanga is “made for Newcastle United.”
The winger impressed vs Barcelona with 2 key passes and 1 big chance created.
Elanga has yet to score or assist in 5 appearances this season.
Newcastle fans were frustrated to see him subbed off after 60 minutes.
With Isak out and Gordon struggling, Elanga has a chance to cement a starting role.

What’s next for Elanga and Newcastle?

Elanga’s immediate task is to build on his Champions League performance when Newcastle return to Premier League action this weekend. Howe will be tempted to hand him another start, particularly given the clamour from fans to see him feature more prominently.

With Newcastle balancing European commitments and domestic fixtures, squad rotation will be essential. But if Elanga continues to bring energy and creativity, he may force himself into Howe’s strongest XI on a regular basis.

👉 Can Anthony Elanga turn his Barcelona display into consistent Premier League form for Newcastle United?

John Terry: Anthony Elanga is “Made for Newcastle United” After Barcelona Display