Anthony Elanga names his best friend in football after Newcastle United move, it’s not Will Osula
Anthony Elanga Overlooks William Osula as Closest Football Friend After Newcastle Move
In a surprising twist just days after finalising his high-profile transfer to Newcastle United from Nottingham Forest, Anthony Elanga has revealed that his best friend in football is not fellow Scandinavian and close companion William Osula. The revelation caught many fans off guard, especially given the pair’s visible bond off the pitch.
The Swedish winger’s £55 million move to Tyneside had long been anticipated by the Magpies’ faithful, who finally had reason to celebrate as the club confirmed Elanga’s arrival on a five-year contract. The 22-year-old becomes one of Eddie Howe’s most exciting attacking additions in recent years, with both the manager and the club’s fanbase eager to see him in black and white.
Following the announcement, Elanga expressed his ambition to succeed at Newcastle and cement his legacy in the club’s history. He openly stated that he’s determined to work hard, improve every aspect of his game, and earn the kind of legendary status that Tyneside fans never forget.
Manager Eddie Howe also shared his enthusiasm, calling Elanga a long-term target whom he’s been monitoring for over a year. “Anthony is a player with tremendous pace, hunger, and ambition. We’ve admired him for quite some time,” said Howe. With the Elanga deal secured, the club will now turn their attention toward strengthening other key areas — with a new striker, goalkeeper, and centre-back among the priorities before the transfer window closes.
Elanga Leaves Out Osula in Best Friend Revelation
Elanga participated in a lighthearted “quickfire questions” segment during his official unveiling. Among the questions posed was one about his best friend in football — a question that seemed to have an obvious answer in the eyes of many fans. Given Elanga’s close relationship with William Osula — the Sheffield United striker who is also of Swedish descent — most expected Osula to get the nod.
The two have been spotted vacationing together and regularly engage on social media, frequently exchanging comments on each other’s Instagram posts. Their off-pitch camaraderie has led many to assume they were inseparable in the football world.
However, Elanga instead named Teden Mengi, a former Manchester United youth teammate who now plays for Luton Town. “Got a few, again, but I’d say Teden Mengi,” Elanga said. He and Mengi came through the ranks together at Manchester United, building a friendship that clearly runs deep. Interestingly, it was also at United where Elanga and Osula first connected — with Osula joining the Red Devils on trial as a youngster and eventually forging a bond with Elanga over time.
While Osula might be slightly surprised to be overlooked, it’s unlikely to impact their friendship. The two continue to support each other online, and their strong off-field connection is expected to translate into effective performances if they ever share the pitch again at international level.
Elanga Praises Newcastle Star as Fiercest Opponent
Although Elanga didn’t choose a Newcastle player as his closest football companion, he did highlight one as the most formidable opponent he has ever faced — fellow Sweden international Alexander Isak.
During his time at Nottingham Forest, Elanga played against Newcastle multiple times, including a memorable Carabao Cup clash last August where Forest suffered a penalty shootout defeat. That match marked the start of Newcastle’s cup run that culminated in a historic victory at Wembley Stadium in March.
Elanga also featured in the Premier League thriller at the City Ground in February, a game which ended in a 4-3 win for Newcastle. That dramatic victory helped reignite the Magpies’ momentum in their pursuit of a Champions League spot. Isak played a starring role in that game, and it seems his performance left a lasting impression on Elanga.
“I’d say the best I’ve played against is Alexander Isak,” Elanga revealed, showing admiration for his countryman’s skill, vision, and clinical finishing. The two will now be teammates both for club and country, and their chemistry could become a potent weapon for Newcastle in the seasons ahead.
With Anthony Elanga now officially on board, Newcastle fans are buzzing with anticipation. Between his undeniable talent, fierce ambition, and newfound links within the squad, the Swedish winger could become a fan favorite on Tyneside — even if his best mate isn’t who fans thought it might be.