Eddie Howe admits he was “fearful” last summer. Newcastle United needed a top-class centre-back — but few realistic options fit the bill. Then came Malick Thiaw.
After missing out on several targets, including Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Šeško, Newcastle finally landed their man — signing Thiaw from AC Milan for £35 million in August. The move didn’t make huge headlines, but Howe was confident: “Malick is an outstanding talent and has a little bit of everything.”
The 24-year-old German, with three international caps, arrived with a reputation for composure and athleticism. Those traits quickly shone through. Patient during his early weeks, Thiaw studied the Premier League’s intensity before stepping in when Fabian Schar suffered a concussion. Since then, he’s made the position his own.
Former Newcastle performance coach Paul Winsper compared Thiaw’s mindset to Antonio Rüdiger’s — “a character who thrives under pressure.” Close friend Erdem Canpolat agrees: “Malick never shies away from a challenge — he’s a true mentality monster.”
That mentality has translated on the pitch. With Thiaw anchoring the defence alongside Sven Botman, Newcastle have conceded just six goals in nine matches. Only Arsenal have kept more clean sheets this season.
Statistically, Thiaw ranks among the Premier League’s best for interceptions, aerial duels, and duel success — while maintaining an 87% pass completion rate. Calm, commanding, and confident on the ball, he’s already become a fan favourite, with supporters chanting his name to the tune of Ciao Bella.
As Howe put it simply: “He’s just been himself.” And that, for Newcastle, has made all the difference.
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