When a football team puts together a complete performance, the spotlight naturally falls on the goal scorers. The players who provide the moments of excitement that decide the match.
For Newcastle United, their commanding 4-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League was a perfect example of this.
The headlines will rightly celebrate Anthony Gordon, who coolly slotted home two penalties, and Nick Woltemade, who continued his impressive start with another goal. It was a night where the attack finally clicked, delivering the kind of clinical finish that had been missing in previous games.
But for those who look a little closer, the true foundation of this victory was built at the other end of the pitch. While the forwards were racking up the goals, the defense was quietly putting together a masterclass in control and composure.
And at the very heart of that defensive effort was a player who is rapidly making himself absolutely essential to manager Eddie Howe’s plans: Malick Thiaw.
The German defender arrived at St. James’ Park this summer with a strong reputation from his time in Italy with AC Milan. There is always a period of adjustment for any player moving to a new league, and Thiaw’s start was steady rather than spectacular.
However, over the past few weeks, he has not just settled in; he has flourished. He has formed a formidable partnership with Sven Botman, and together they are beginning to look like a defensive pairing that can be the backbone of this team for years to come. His performance in Belgium was the clearest sign yet of his growing importance.
What made his display so impressive was how effortless he made it look. He wasn’t a defender who was constantly making last-ditch, desperate tackles.
Instead, he read the game with intelligence, positioning himself perfectly to snuff out danger before it became a real threat. The statistics from the match tell the story of a player who was in complete command.
He won every single aerial duel he contested, a perfect three out of three. He made multiple key interceptions, cutting out passes that seemed destined for an opponent’s feet.
On the ball, he was just as composed, completing over 90% of his passes, often under pressure, helping the team build their attacks from the back with calm assurance.
This kind of performance doesn’t always get the same recognition as a goal or a flashy dribble, but it is just as valuable. It provides the platform that allows the creative players to express themselves further up the field.
Knowing there is a solid and reliable presence behind them gives the entire team a sense of security and confidence. Thiaw’s partnership with Botman is beginning to feel like a true force, a central defensive core that is very difficult for opponents to break down.
The fans have already taken notice of his contributions. At the full-time whistle in Belgium, his name was ringing out from the traveling Newcastle supporters.
They can see the qualities he brings to the team: the strength, the timing, and the quiet authority. His own teammates see it too. After a recent cup win, fellow summer signing Will Osula took to social media to call Thiaw a “machine,” a description that perfectly captures his powerful and efficient style of play.
For Eddie Howe, this presents the best kind of problem. Thiaw is playing so well that it is now almost impossible to consider dropping him. He has become, in essence, undroppable.
His presence in the starting lineup is no longer a question; it is an expectation. In a team filled with attacking talent, it is the rise of a commanding defender that could be the most significant development.
A strong defense wins you points on days when the attack isn’t firing. It gives you a chance in every single match. With Malick Thiaw marshaling the backline, Newcastle doesn’t just have a talented defender; they have found a new pillar to build upon.
