Anthony Elanga has a history of shining against Newcastle United, as he prepares to start shining for them instead.
It was announced on Friday 11th July that Newcastle United have signed Elanga, as the 23-year-old pens a five-year deal at St James’ Park.
Elanga is excited to join Newcastle United, becoming the Magpies’ first major signing since 2023.
While Newcastle think Elanga can improve, they have extremely high hopes for the player they have spent £55million on.
As for the man himself, he believes that a move to Tyneside makes all the sense in the world.
Anthony Elanga poses after signing for Newcastle United.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Anthony Elanga has always wanted to play well against Newcastle United
During his first interview as a Newcastle United player, Elanga has admitted that he has always tried to play well against the Magpies during his career. That was the case at Forest, with Elanga scoring once and providing three assists against Eddie Howe’s side.
Even at youth level when he was at Manchester United, he wanted to make an impression versus Newcastle.
“Funnily enough, I’ve always had this thing when I play against Newcastle I always want to do well, from [being] young as well,” he said.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
“I remember my first ever game was an Under-18s when I scored a solo goal. I don’t know if you guys remember, but I scored a solo goal for the Under-18s against Newcastle.
“I’ve always had this thing with Newcastle. I’ve always wanted to play well against them. Looking back now, it all makes sense as to why I’m here now.”
Watch Anthony Elanga’s amazing solo goal against Newcastle United Under-18s
The goal that Elanga scored for Manchester United Under-18s against Newcastle United Under-18s in March 2019 has resurfaced on social media, and it truly is sensational.
With the number nine on his back, Elanga picks the ball up on the left flank before drifting inside and going past three Newcastle United players. He was then able to apply the finish too, as the young Red Devils won 3-1 on Tyneside.
You can watch the goal below, as a young Elanga torments the Magpies’ youth side.
The Newcastle United Under-18s side that Elanga faced included Elliot Anderson, who he became teammates with at Nottingham Forest, and Joe White, who is still a Toon player and has been spotted in pre-season training at the club’s training ground.