Anthony Elanga’s emotional return to Nottingham Forest may have produced one of the most touching moments of Newcastle United’s afternoon at the City Ground — but it also raised fresh questions about his difficult first season at St James’ Park.
Before Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Forest even kicked off, warm applause echoed around the stadium as Elanga made his way towards the away bench. Forest supporters, who still clearly hold the Swedish international in high regard, applauded their former winger warmly, and Elanga responded with appreciation of his own.
It was a reminder of just how important he had been to Forest only a season earlier.
Elanga played a major role in helping Nottingham Forest secure European football for the first time in decades, contributing six goals and 11 assists during an impressive campaign that convinced Newcastle to spend £55 million on him last summer.
But nearly a full season later, the excitement surrounding that move has faded dramatically.
Against his former club, Elanga remained an unused substitute as Jacob Murphy was once again preferred on Newcastle’s right wing. The decision only intensified the growing debate surrounding the 24-year-old’s struggles under Eddie Howe.
In 42 appearances across all competitions this season, Elanga has managed just three goals and two assists. More concerning for Newcastle supporters is the fact he is still waiting for his first Premier League goal for the club.
The winger has often looked short on confidence, struggling to consistently adapt to Newcastle’s tactical demands. His explosive pace and direct dribbling — qualities that made him such a threat at Forest — have only appeared in flashes this season.
There have been glimpses of promise. Elanga impressed against Barcelona in Europe and delivered standout performances in matches against Union SG and Manchester City. At times, it seemed like he was finally turning a corner.
Yet those moments have been too rare to silence concerns over whether Newcastle are truly getting value from one of the club’s biggest recent signings.
Eddie Howe has continued to publicly back the winger, insisting his best football is still to come. The Newcastle manager recently admitted there has been frustration over Elanga’s inconsistency but stressed that some players simply need more time to fully adapt to the demands of the team.
Howe believes a full pre-season and continued work on the training ground could unlock the qualities that convinced Newcastle to make such a huge investment in the first place.
Still, patience among supporters is beginning to wear thin.
The warm reception Elanga received from Forest fans was a powerful reminder of the player Newcastle thought they were signing. The challenge now is proving he can still become that player again on Tyneside.
