Newcastle United defender Malick Thiawplaceholder image
Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw | Getty Images
Malick Thiaw has been a revelation in defence since joining Newcastle United.
Malick Thiaw believes joining Newcastle United was the “right decision” after returning to the Germany setup.
The 24-year-old has been a rare highlight in an otherwise underwhelming start to the campaign at St James’ Park. Toon chiefs held a long-term interest in the centre-back before striking a £30million deal with AC Milan.
Malick Thiaw on Newcastle United move
Thiaw’s impressive form has earned him a recall to the Germany squad. The last of his three caps came in 2023 and he now links up with Toon teammate Nick Woltemade.
Speaking to the media while on international duty, Thiaw revealed that Eddie Howe tried to sign him three times and a chat with the Newcastle manager proved crucial to deciding his future.
“Definitely (whether Newcastle’s persistent approaches helped sway his mind),” Thiaw said, as quoted via Sky Deutschland. “There was already a conversation in the spring, but this summer it became much more concrete than in previous years.
“I then had talks with Eddie Howe, in which he explained his plans for me and where he saw me playing. After that, I decided to join Newcastle. I think it was the right decision.”
Chat with Germany manager
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann also left the door open for an international comeback following his Newcastle move. Thiaw added: “He called me when I transferred to Newcastle. We had a phone conversation, and the initial expectation was that I would deliver in the games for Newcastle.
“I think I’ve managed that quite well lately. Since I’ve been here, we haven’t had a face-to-face meeting yet, but I’m sure that will happen in the next few days.”
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‘He’s been excellent’ - Eddie Howe
Howe hailed Thiaw’s immediate impact when speaking to reporters last month. He said: “He’s a prospect for the future but also the here and now. He’s settled in really well. I think he’s built good friendships, especially with Nick (Woltemade).
“You can see Malick and Nick have built up that strong relationship. It’s important that you have the strength of those relationships around from day to day. On the pitch, I think he’s been excellent.
“Very calm, quite quiet in his work but you can see on the pitch how aggressive he is and how much he wants to win and help the team. He’s distributed the ball really well. He’s athletic.”
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