How Thiaw’s mindset transformed Newcastle’s defence

By Martin Graham

Eddie Howe entered last summer’s transfer window with concern. Newcastle United needed a commanding center-back, but the pool of suitable options was slim. The head coach’s top choice was Malick Thiaw, though prising the 24-year-old away from AC Milan seemed uncertain.

After missing out on several previous targets — including Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, Joao Pedro, and James Trafford — there was a genuine fear of history repeating itself. This time, however, Newcastle succeeded, sealing a £35 million deal for Thiaw in August.

While other, higher-profile signings later drew more attention — notably Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa, Anthony Elanga, and Jacob Ramsey — Howe always viewed Thiaw as a crucial addition. “Malick is an outstanding talent and has a little bit of everything,” Howe said. “I’ve been delighted with his start.”

A player built for pressure

Newcastle’s recruitment staff had been following Thiaw’s progress at Milan for a while, convinced that his combination of power, mobility, and composure was rare at his price point. The German defender was equally enthusiastic, having previously rejected a move to Como but quickly seeing Newcastle as a fitting step forward.

Before finalizing his move, Thiaw spoke with Howe and conducted his own research into the club and the Premier League. He saw ambition and potential — values he shared. During a training camp in the Lake District, performance consultant Paul Winsper, who has worked with athletes such as Anthony Joshua, Maro Itoje, and Antonio Rudiger, spoke highly of both Newcastle and the region to Thiaw.

Winsper believed Thiaw’s mindset would suit the environment perfectly. “I’m not saying Milan isn’t a massive club — they are — but Newcastle’s atmosphere is different,” he said. “His mentality is similar to Rudiger’s. The tougher the situation, the better he performs.”

Rising to the occasion

Thiaw’s readiness was soon tested. When Fabian Schar sustained a concussion last month, Newcastle lost a player who had been ever-present under Howe, featuring 162 times. Thiaw had joined too late to start the season and initially watched from the bench, using that period to study the Premier League’s intensity and pace.

His attitude impressed the coaching staff, and when his full debut came against Bournemouth, he seized the opportunity. Since then, the 6ft 4in defender has retained his spot, forming a solid partnership alongside Sven Botman.

Longtime friend Erdem Canpolat, who came through Schalke’s academy with him, was not surprised. “Malick never backs down from a challenge,” he said. “He always leads by example — a real mentality monster.”

Forming Newcastle’s new defensive core

The St. James’ Park crowd has quickly embraced Thiaw, singing his name to the tune of Ciao Bella. Since his debut, Newcastle have conceded just six goals across nine matches in all competitions — a defensive record that has helped them maintain stability despite occasional late setbacks against Arsenal and Brighton.

Statistically, only Arsenal has more Premier League clean sheets than Newcastle’s five this season, while the Magpies’ expected goals against figure (7.33) is second only to the league leaders. Thiaw’s contribution has been vital to that defensive strength.

According to Opta, among Premier League defenders with over 400 minutes played, Thiaw ranks fourth for interceptions (1.79) and sixth for both aerial duels won (4.17) and duel success (71%) per 90 minutes. He also boasts the squad’s second-highest passing accuracy (87%), behind only Jacob Ramsey.

Former Schalke teammate Can Bozdogan praised his balanced style: “He doesn’t just clear the ball; he finds solutions. He’s technical, athletic, fast, and intelligent. Newcastle are going to enjoy watching him.”