Anthony Elanga sends ‘cruel’ Newcastle message after crushing blow
Newcastle forward Anthony Elanga shared a heartfelt message to supporters after their dramatic loss to Liverpool in the Premier League.
The Magpies looked set to secure a spirited point at St James’ Park after coming from two goals down with 10 men, only for 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha snatched victory for Liverpool in stoppage time.
Ryan Gravenberch had opened the scoring following early pressure from the visitors, and Newcastle’s evening became even more difficult when Anthony Gordon was shown a red card for a late challenge on Virgil van Dijk. Former transfer target Hugo Ekitike then doubled the lead, leaving Eddie Howe’s side with a mountain to climb.
Despite the setback, Newcastle responded with real determination. Bruno Guimaraes pulled one back before William Osula netted an equaliser in the second half, sparking belief around the ground. But just as it looked like they had done enough, Liverpool’s late winner proved devastating.
Elanga, who played the full 90 minutes and was Newcastle’s main attacking outlet throughout, later shared his gratitude to the fans, praising their support despite the heartbreaking result.
Anthony Elanga shares heartfelt message after Newcastle defeat
Elanga took to Instagram to post an emotional update following Newcastle’s dramatic late defeat to Liverpool. The winger shared a picture of himself celebrating one of the comeback goals alongside an honest caption which read:
“Football can be cruel, but we will never give up under any circumstances. It will all work out.”
Elanga joined Newcastle from Nottingham Forest earlier in the summer for around £55 million, after the Magpies missed out on Bryan Mbeumo.
While the Swede is still waiting for his first competitive goal in black and white, Elanga impressed for Newcastle during pre-season by scoring against Arsenal and has quickly shown his energy and influence on the right flank.
He was also a key figure for Forest last season, playing a central role in their push for a seventh-place finish. During his two-year spell at the City Ground, he made 82 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 21 assists, before deciding to take on a new challenge at St James’ Park.
Newcastle face fresh competition for Conor Gallagher
Howe’s side continue to push in the transfer market, but another one of their long-term targets may slip away.
Football Insider revealed that Crystal Palace have joined the race to sign Conor Gallagher, adding to the interest already shown by Tottenham and Newcastle.
It is believed Gallagher is open to a return to the Premier League ahead of the 2026 World Cup, leaving Newcastle with a decision to make if they want to secure his signature before the window closes.