Eddie Howe has spoken passionately about Anthony Elanga, expressing complete faith in the £55 million signing and his long-term potential at Newcastle United.
The manager made it clear that despite a difficult start to life on Tyneside, he believes Elanga will become a top player for the club.
Howe’s confidence in the Swedish international remains firm as he continues to integrate into his new surroundings after a big-money move from Nottingham Forest.
Speaking to the media, Howe praised Elanga’s talent, highlighting the winger’s flashes of quality and work ethic. He admitted there is always an adjustment period when players arrive at a new club, especially one with the expectations and intensity of Newcastle.
Still, the manager insists the 23-year-old has all the right attributes to succeed. According to Howe, Elanga has already produced several strong performances and contributed with excellent crosses that could have easily resulted in goals had the finishing been sharper.
Howe said that it is important to look beyond immediate results and trust the process of development. He described Elanga as “an outstanding player” who only needs time and confidence to fully show his abilities.
While acknowledging that there is a settling-in period, Howe pointed out that Elanga’s progress is visible in moments of brilliance that don’t always reflect in statistics.
He believes that consistency and composure will come with experience and rhythm as Elanga adapts to Newcastle’s playing style and the Premier League’s demands.
The manager also addressed the wider issue of Newcastle’s lack of attacking output from their wingers. Across eight league games, players like Elanga, Gordon, Murphy, and Barnes have managed only one assist and no goals between them.
Howe accepted that the team’s attacking players must step up but noted that the lack of end product isn’t solely their fault. Football, he explained, is about balance and structure, and sometimes issues that appear to stem from the front line actually start elsewhere on the pitch.
To improve creativity and finishing, Howe and his coaching staff have been holding regular meetings with the attacking players, both individually and as a group.
He revealed that they are constantly working on different aspects of their attacking play, from movement off the ball to decision-making in the final third.
Howe’s calm, composed approach reflects his confidence in his players’ ability to find their form with the right support and guidance.
Elanga’s start at Newcastle has drawn mixed reactions among fans. After an impressive display in the 4-0 win over Union SG, his performances have dipped slightly, with back-to-back poor showings in the league.
His body language at times suggests a player short on confidence, and it’s clear he needs a spark to reignite his self-belief. However, Howe’s unwavering faith in the young Swede could prove vital in helping him rediscover his rhythm.
It’s easy for supporters to grow impatient with big signings, especially when the price tag is heavy and expectations are sky-high. But Howe’s track record with player development deserves recognition.
The progress of Anthony Gordon is a perfect example. Once criticized for inconsistency and end product, Gordon has blossomed under Howe’s guidance into one of Newcastle’s most reliable and hard-working wide men.
Elanga, who possesses similar raw pace and attacking intent, may follow a similar path if given time and encouragement.
Howe’s public support for Elanga sends a clear message Newcastle are investing in a player for the long haul, not just for short-term impact.
The manager’s words underline his belief that talent and attitude eventually prevail over form and pressure. With Howe’s mentorship, Elanga has the environment he needs to thrive, and if history is any guide, it may not be long before Newcastle fans see the £55 million winger they were promised.
Patience, trust, and good coaching often turn potential into brilliance and Eddie Howe seems convinced that Anthony Elanga’s time to shine is coming soon.
