Newcastle United’s 2025/26 campaign has been a rollercoaster so far, and while Eddie Howe’s side have made some progress following a difficult summer and a shaky start to the season, there are still glaring issues that need addressing.
The Magpies currently sit 12th in the Premier League, only four points behind Crystal Palace in the top four, but the quality and consistency of their performances remain a concern.
Howe’s team has shown resilience and adaptability, qualities that few rivals can match, but certain high-profile signings have failed to make the impact expected, raising questions about recruitment and investment strategy.
Anthony Elanga, signed from Nottingham Forest for £55 million, has struggled to justify the faith shown in him. The 24-year-old winger has yet to score for Newcastle and has contributed only one assist in 15 appearances this season.
Despite flashes of promise, particularly during his cameo against Tottenham Hotspur, Elanga has largely flattered to deceive. His speed and creativity, qualities that made him a target for St. James’ Park, have yet to consistently influence matches.
Analyst Raj Chohan labelled him a “massive overpay,” and Newcastle fans have seen little evidence to challenge that assertion.
| Anthony Elanga’s Recent Premier League Stats | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stats (* per game) | 24/25 | 25/26 |
| Matches (starts) | 38 (31) | 15 (6) |
| Goals | 6 | 0 |
| Assists | 11 | 1 |
| Shots (on target)* | 1.1 (0.6) | 0.5 (0.2) |
| Pass completion | 78% | 81% |
| Key passes* | 1.3 | 0.5 |
| Big chances created | 9 | 1 |
| Dribbles* | 0.7 | 0.3 |
| Tackles + interceptions* | 0.7 | 0.5 |
| Duels (won)* | 3.0 (45%) | 1.7 (36%) |
| Data via Sofascore | ||
While Elanga has underwhelmed, the situation is arguably more pressing with Jacob Ramsey. Arriving from Aston Villa for £40 million, Ramsey has also struggled to deliver the creative spark Newcastle paid a premium for.
Against Burnley, Ramsey completed 73 touches, one shot, and one key pass, but his overall influence was muted, highlighted by a late penalty concession that made the closing stages nervy.
Despite winning eight ball recoveries and four out of five duels, his attacking contribution was minimal, reflecting a continuation of the inconsistencies that plagued him at Villa.
| Jacob Ramsey vs Burnley | |
|---|---|
| Match Stats | # |
| Minutes played | 89′ |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Touches | 73 |
| Shots (on target | 1 (0) |
| Accurate passes | 56/60 (93%) |
| Chances created | 1 |
| Dribbles | 1/2 |
| Recoveries | 8 |
| Tackles | 1/2 |
| Duels won | 4/5 |
| Data via Sofascore | |
Ramsey’s struggles are compounded by Newcastle’s midfield depth. With Joe Willock consistently challenging for minutes and the potential return of Elliot Anderson, Ramsey may find his opportunities further limited.
Both Elanga and Ramsey possess the talent to improve, but immediate results are crucial for a team aiming to compete at the highest level both domestically and in Europe.
The Magpies’ broader recruitment strategy also comes under scrutiny. While PIF and Howe have generally been praised for calculated signings and effective squad building, the summer window exposed vulnerabilities.
High-profile departures, including Alexander Isak, and the rejection of other targets left Newcastle scrambling. The signings of Elanga and Ramsey, while promising on paper, have yet to yield the intended returns, raising concerns about value for money and scouting effectiveness.
With technical director Ross Wilson confirming that Newcastle have funds available for January and beyond, the club could take the opportunity to rectify missteps and reinforce weak areas.
Howe will need his squad firing on all cylinders to meet the club’s ambitions, particularly with Champions League qualification a priority and the expectation to compete with England’s elite teams.
Newcastle’s current campaign is a reminder that talent alone is not enough; integration, form, and tactical understanding are crucial. Elanga and Ramsey remain capable of turning things around, but the clock is ticking.
The club’s decision-makers face a delicate balance: patience with young talent versus immediate performance requirements. Given the significant investment in both players, a strategic approach to development, rotation, and potential reinforcements will be essential to ensuring Newcastle remain competitive at the highest levels.
