Dan Burn’s one-word response to Malick Thiaw on Instagram summed up exactly what the German defender has brought to Newcastle United.
Thiaw has been a standout player for Newcastle United this season and is frankly making a mockery of his price tag, which was a reported £34.3million.
The ease with which Thiaw has adapted to life at Newcastle has been hugely impressive.
Even in a squad also containing some excellent defenders in the form of Burn, Fabian Schar and Sven Botman, the former AC Milan star has established himself as arguably the best of the lot.
Thiaw was brilliant again as Newcastle beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in the Champions League at St James’ Park and Burn was quick to praise his teammate.
Newcastle United FC v Athletic Club - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Dan Burn hails “class” Malick Thiaw after Newcastle United beat Athletic Bilbao
Eddie Howe’s side were not at their vintage best against the Basque side. Still, they did manage to record a vital three points at home before some difficult away trips in this competition and that deserves credit.
A sloppy Newcastle almost let their visitors back into the contest after Burn’s stunning opening goal, but Thiaw was a big part of the reason the hosts managed to keep a clean sheet. He was cool, calm and composed even during a period of the game in which Newcastle kept making mistakes.
After the game, Thiaw captioned a collage of images: “Big night. Big team.”
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
In response, Burn summed it all up by simply writing: “Class.”
Class is exactly what Thiaw brings generally, and what he showed in abundance on Wednesday. He’s a fine operator and while this remains an early stage in his Newcastle United career, the early evidence suggests he will be a fine addition to the ranks for many years to come.
Eddie Howe delighted with Malick Thiaw once again at Newcastle United
Howe has consistently praised Thiaw and that continued on Wednesday night.
The Newcastle United manager lauded the 24-year-old for his performance against the La Liga outfit.
“Very strong tonight,” said Howe of Thiaw.
“I thought he and Sven [Botman] both played very well today. They needed to, because there were moments where they were tested.”
He added: “I think he’s settled in very quickly. I think he’s looked at home with our style of play and what we’re asking him to do. Top delivery from him.”
Nick Woltemade may have been the headline addition to the Newcastle United squad this summer, but Thiaw is now giving him some stern competition.