You can learn a lot about a player from their former club, which is good news for Newcastle United regarding Anthony Elanga.
It was announced on Friday that Newcastle United have signed Elanga, with the 23-year-old swapping the City Ground for St James’ Park in a £55million deal.
Elanga has signed a five-year deal with Newcastle, ending his two-year association with Nottingham Forest. As part of his first interview with the Magpies, Elanga paid tribute to his former club.
Anthony Elanga sends goodbye message to Nottingham Forest
Elanga has declared himself a ‘Geordie’, but has also taken time to thank the club and the supporters who have backed him over the past couple of years.
The Sweden international has issued an emotional goodbye to Nottingham Forest on his official Instagram account, declaring that this chapter of his career will ‘forever’ be in his heart.
“My Forest Family— it’s been real!” he wrote.
“From day one, the love has been crazy and I felt it every time I stepped on that pitch. Grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the chance to wear that shirt with pride.
“Big love to my teammates, coaches & all the backroom staff , and to the City Ground faithful… you all made it special. I’ll never forget that feeling of walking out to your energy.
“Time for the next chapter. But this one? Forever in my heart. Thankyou.”
Nottingham Forest fans hail ‘classy’ Anthony Elanga
Following his message on Instagram, Forest fans have taken to X (formerly known as Twitter) to wish Elanga luck at Newcastle United – except for when he is up against his former club!
“Very nice farewell message from Elanga this morning, wish him all the best and thankful for his service at the club,” wrote one Forest fan.
Another added: “Fair play from Elanga. He has been great for us; in addition to his pace, assists & goals he brought energy, positivity & fun. Very sad to see him go but wish him well.”
This Forest supporter commented: “Classy from him. Didn’t ask for the move but NUFC met the buy out price so fair enough. Credit to #NUFC for conducting business properly unlike spurs. Hope he does well for NUFC especially in Europe.”
A fourth Forest fan noted: “Good luck to him apart from the games against us. The club decided he could go for a decent price. He made a massive contribution especially this last season. For us now it’s all about who replaces him.”
“It’s never nice seeing a player leave when they are talented. There’s a way to do it right though. God bless @AnthonyElanga,” added this supporter.
Finally, this Nottingham Forest fan simply wrote: “Very classy. Go well AE.”
When Anthony Elanga will play for Newcastle United against Nottingham Forest
It will be interesting to see what type of reaction Elanga gets when he visits the City Ground as a Newcastle United player. It should not be too negative, even if there is a smattering of boos. However, that is often the case when a former player returns after being sold.
Regardless, he will have to wait until 2026 to be back in front of the City Ground crowd. That is because Newcastle United do not face Nottingham Forest away from home until 9th May, 2026. It is currently scheduled to be the Magpies’ third-last game of the season.
The first time Elanga will play again in front of the Nottingham Forest faithful is 4th October, 2025. On that day, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will travel to St James’ Park.
By then, Elanga should be fully up to speed in a black and white shirt.
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