When a club makes a significant investment in a new player, everyone is eager to see them make an immediate impact.
For Newcastle United, the £55 million signing of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest was met with genuine excitement.
The Swedish international arrived with a reputation for blistering pace and direct attacking play, qualities that seemed perfectly suited to Eddie Howe’s high-energy system.
However, after starting the first game of the season against Aston Villa, Elanga has found himself on the bench for the subsequent matches, a situation that has prompted questions from fans and pundits alike.
The manager, Eddie Howe, has now offered a clear and thoughtful explanation for this decision, providing insight into the process of integrating a new player into a demanding tactical setup.
Speaking ahead of the team’s massive UEFA Champions League opener against Barcelona, Howe was full of praise for Elanga’s attitude and application since arriving on Tyneside.
He emphasized that the player is in a “good place,” has integrated well with the rest of the squad, and has shown total commitment in training.
The reason for his place on the bench is not a reflection of any failing, but rather a natural part of his adaptation.
Howe pointed out that while Elanga possesses “standout qualities and attributes,” particularly his exceptional pace and direct running style similar to Anthony Gordon, he is currently going through a necessary learning process.
The manager explained that the role he is being asked to perform at Newcastle is “very different” from the one he excelled in at his former club.
Last season at Nottingham Forest, Elanga played in a specific system and style. Adapting to the specific tactical demands, defensive responsibilities, and overall playing philosophy at Newcastle requires time.
Howe described it as a period of “acclimatisation,” a phase where the player is working to understand everything that is required of him in his new environment.
The manager expressed his delight with Elanga’s progress and believes he is “well on the way” to fully grasping his new role.
In his place, Jacob Murphy has seized his opportunity. His performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he provided a superb assist for Nick Woltemade’s winning goal, was highlighted by club legend Alan Shearer and demonstrated exactly why he has been preferred recently.
His understanding of Howe’s system and his specific role within it is currently more ingrained.
The upcoming hectic schedule, which includes the glamorous Champions League clash with Barcelona followed quickly by a Premier League trip to Bournemouth, means rotation is inevitable.
This presents a perfect opportunity for Elanga to come back into the reckoning. Furthermore, the return of Anthony Gordon from suspension gives Howe another dynamic option for the forward line.
The manager spoke highly of Gordon, noting his “pace and directness” and stating that he is an “outstanding player” who is firmly in his thoughts for selection.
Howe’s comments reveal a manager who is thinking about the long term. He is not just judging a player on one missed chance in his debut or his initial appearances; he is focused on carefully nurturing and coaching him to ensure that when he does play, he is fully prepared to execute the game plan and showcase the talents that made the club want to sign him in the first place.
For Anthony Elanga, the message is clear: be patient, keep working, and your chance will come again very soon in what promises to be a long and demanding season.
