Alex MacQuoid
How Thiaw Became Newcastle’s ‘Mentality Monster’
Eddie Howe faced a daunting task last summer. Newcastle United needed a centre-back, but the options were limited. Howe set his sights on Malick Thiaw, a 24-year-old talent from AC Milan.
Newcastle’s pursuit of Thiaw was fraught with uncertainty. Could they secure his signature? Would another club swoop in, as had happened with previous targets like Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, Joao Pedro, and James Trafford? This time, Newcastle prevailed, completing a £35m move for Thiaw in August.
The deal flew under the radar amidst Newcastle’s other high-profile signings, including Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa, Anthony Elanga, and Jacob Ramsey. Yet, Howe always considered Thiaw an “important signing.”
“Malick is an outstanding talent and has a little bit of everything in his game. I’ve been really pleased with how he’s started,” Howe said this week.
Thiaw’s imposing presence, athleticism, and comfort on the ball made him a standout target. His eagerness to join Newcastle was a significant factor. He had productive discussions with Howe and viewed the club as a “match” for his ambitions.
Paul Winsper, a high-performance consultant, played a crucial role in convincing Thiaw. Winsper, who has worked with stars like Anthony Joshua, Maro Itoje, and Antonio Rudiger, believed Thiaw would “relish” life at St James’ Park.
“His mentality reminds me a lot of Toni Rudiger. When you get him under pressure, he is going to thrive,” Winsper said.
Thiaw’s opportunity came when Fabian Schar suffered a concussion. Schar, with 162 appearances under Howe, had been a mainstay. Thiaw used his time on the bench to study the Premier League’s intensity and impressed in training.
His full debut against Bournemouth was a turning point. Thiaw has since kept his place, forming a strong partnership with Sven Botman. Newcastle have conceded only six goals in nine games since his debut.
Thiaw’s impact is evident in the statistics. Among Premier League defenders with at least 400 minutes played, he ranks fourth for interceptions per 90 minutes and sixth for aerial duels won. His pass completion rate of 87% is the highest among Newcastle’s defenders.
“He’s just been himself,” Howe said.
Thiaw’s former teammate, Erdem Canpolat, praised his mentality.
“Malick never shies away from a challenge and always wants to lead from the front – a true mentality monster,” Canpolat said.
Newcastle fans have embraced Thiaw, serenading him to the tune of ‘Ciao Bella.’ His performances have been instrumental in Newcastle’s defensive solidity, keeping only six goals in nine games.
Only Arsenal have kept more clean sheets than Newcastle this season. Thiaw’s contributions have been pivotal, and his future at St James’ Park looks promising.