Newcastle United player ratings vs Celtic as Anthony Elanga verdict given and academy star shines

Newcastle United faced Celtic in a highly anticipated friendly match on July 19, 2025, at Parkhead, where the Magpies were looking to build momentum ahead of the new season. Despite a spirited performance, Newcastle fell to a 3-1 defeat against the Scottish giants. However, there were several standout performances, particularly from Anthony Elanga, who was a constant threat throughout the match, and a promising display from an academy star. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of each player’s performance, highlighting their contributions and areas for improvement.

Goalkeeper: Nick Pope (Rating: 6/10)

Nick Pope had a mixed outing in goal. He made a couple of crucial saves, particularly in the first half, to keep Newcastle in the game. However, he was unable to prevent Celtic’s goals, which came from well-placed shots that he could not reach. His distribution was inconsistent, leading to a few missed opportunities for Newcastle to build from the back. Overall, Pope’s experience was evident, but he will need to sharpen his focus and decision-making as the season approaches.

Defenders

Kieran Trippier (Rating: 7/10)
Trippier was one of Newcastle’s more reliable defenders on the night. He provided leadership and organization at the back, helping to marshal the defense against Celtic’s attacking threats. His ability to push forward and deliver dangerous crosses was evident, although he struggled to find a teammate in the box consistently. Trippier’s experience and tactical awareness were crucial, and he will be a key player for Newcastle as they look to solidify their defense.

Sven Botman (Rating: 5/10)
Botman had a challenging game, often finding himself outpaced by Celtic’s forwards. He struggled with positioning and was caught flat-footed on a couple of occasions, leading to goal-scoring opportunities for the opposition. While he showed glimpses of his potential, Botman will need to improve his decision-making and physicality to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

Fabian Schär (Rating: 6/10)
Schär had a solid performance, making several important tackles and interceptions. However, he was also guilty of some lapses in concentration that allowed Celtic to exploit gaps in the defense. His passing was generally good, but he needs to work on maintaining focus throughout the match. Schär’s experience will be vital as the team looks to build a cohesive defensive unit.

Dan Burn (Rating: 6/10)
Burn provided a physical presence in defense and was effective in aerial duels. However, he struggled with Celtic’s pace on the flanks, which led to some dangerous situations. His ability to contribute to the attack was limited, and he will need to find a better balance between defense and offense. Burn’s height and strength are assets, but he must improve his positioning to avoid being caught out.

Midfielders

Bruno Guimarães (Rating: 8/10)
Guimarães was undoubtedly Newcastle’s standout player, showcasing his skill and vision throughout the match. He was instrumental in linking defense and attack, making key passes that created opportunities. His work rate was commendable, and he was involved in most of Newcastle’s attacking plays. Guimarães’ ability to control the midfield and dictate the tempo will be crucial for Newcastle as they aim for a successful season.

Sean Longstaff (Rating: 5/10)
Longstaff had a quiet game, struggling to make an impact in midfield. He was often outmuscled by Celtic’s midfielders and failed to provide the necessary support to both defense and attack. Longstaff’s passing was inconsistent, and he will need to step up his game to secure a regular starting position. His performance was disappointing, and he must find ways to contribute more effectively.

Joe Willock (Rating: 6/10)
Willock showed flashes of brilliance, making some good runs and attempting to link up with the forwards. However, his final product was lacking, and he failed to convert any of his chances. He needs to be more decisive in the final third to make a greater impact. Willock’s energy and movement are assets, but he must improve his decision-making in critical moments.

Forwards

Anthony Elanga (Rating: 9/10)
Elanga was the star of the show, consistently causing problems for Celtic’s defense with his pace and dribbling ability. He was involved in most of Newcastle’s attacking plays and even managed to score a goal, showcasing his finishing skills. His performance earned him the top rating, and he will be crucial for Newcastle moving forward. Elanga’s ability to stretch defenses and create space for his teammates will be vital as the team looks to improve their attacking output.

Alexander Isak (Rating: 7/10)
Isak had a decent game, showing his technical ability and movement off the ball. He linked up well with Elanga and created several chances, but he was unable to find the back of the net. His work rate was commendable, and he will be looking to build on this performance in future matches. Isak’s creativity and vision are essential for Newcastle’s attacking play, and he must continue to develop his partnership with Elanga.

Callum Wilson (Rating: 5/10)
Wilson struggled to make an impact against Celtic’s defense. He was often isolated and failed to get into dangerous positions. His lack of involvement in the game was disappointing, and he will need to find his form to help Newcastle in the upcoming fixtures. Wilson’s experience and goal-scoring ability are crucial, but he must work on his positioning and movement to be more effective.

Substitutes

Jacob Murphy (Rating: 6/10)
Murphy came on in the second half and provided some energy to the attack. He made a few good runs but was unable to make a significant impact on the game. Murphy’s pace and work rate are assets, but he needs to be more decisive in the final third to contribute effectively.

Elliot Anderson (Rating: 7/10)
Anderson had a bright cameo, showing his technical ability and creativity. He was involved in several attacking moves and demonstrated a willingness to take on defenders. His performance was encouraging, and he could be a valuable asset for Newcastle as the season progresses. Anderson’s ability to create chances and link up with the forwards will be crucial for the team’s success.

Ryan Fraser (Rating: 6/10)
Fraser added some pace to the attack after coming on, but he was unable to create any clear-cut chances. His performance was solid, but he will need to be more effective in future matches. Fraser’s experience and ability to deliver quality crosses are important, and he must find ways to contribute more consistently.

Academy Star Shines

One of the most notable aspects of the match was the performance of academy star Elliot Anderson. Coming on as a substitute, Anderson showcased his potential with a lively display that caught the attention of fans and coaching staff alike. His ability to take on defenders and create chances was a breath of fresh air for Newcastle, and he demonstrated that he could be a valuable asset moving forward.

Anderson’s performance is a testament to the club’s commitment to developing young talent. With the right guidance and opportunities, he has the potential to become a key player for Newcastle in the future. His ability to link up with the forwards and create goal-scoring opportunities will be crucial as the team looks to build a competitive squad.

Conclusion

The match against Celtic served as a valuable learning experience for Newcastle United. While the defeat was disappointing, there were positive takeaways, particularly from Anthony Elanga and academy star Elliot Anderson. The team will need to address defensive vulnerabilities and improve their midfield cohesion as they prepare for the upcoming season.

As Newcastle looks to build on this performance, the coaching staff will need to focus on developing the squad’s strengths while addressing areas for improvement. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, Newcastle has the potential to make a significant impact in the Premier League this season. Fans will be eagerly anticipating the next match, hoping to see a more cohesive and effective performance from the Magpies.

Player Ratings Summary

Goalkeeper: Nick Pope (Rating: 6/10)

• Mixed performance with crucial saves but inconsistent distribution.

Defenders:

• Kieran Trippier (Rating: 7/10)
  • Reliable and organized, provided leadership and attacking support.
• Sven Botman (Rating: 5/10)
  • Struggled with positioning and pace; needs to improve decision-making.
• Fabian Schär (Rating: 6/10)
  • Solid defensively but had lapses in concentration; good passing.
• Dan Burn (Rating: 6/10)
  • Provided physicality but struggled with pace; needs better positioning.

Midfielders:

• Bruno Guimarães (Rating: 8/10)
  • Standout player, linked defense and attack effectively.
• Sean Longstaff (Rating: 5/10)
  • Quiet performance; struggled against Celtic’s midfield.
• Joe Willock (Rating: 6/10)
  • Showed good movement but lacked final product.

Forwards:

• Anthony Elanga (Rating: 9/10)
  • Star of the match, consistently troubled Celtic’s defense and scored.
• Alexander Isak (Rating: 7/10)
  • Good movement and link-up play; needs to find the net.
• Callum Wilson (Rating: 5/10)
  • Isolated and ineffective; must regain form.

Substitutes:

• Jacob Murphy (Rating: 6/10)
  • Provided energy but limited impact.
• Elliot Anderson (Rating: 7/10)
  • Bright cameo, showed creativity and potential.
• Ryan Fraser (Rating: 6/10)
  • Added pace but needs to create more chances.

Final Thoughts

As Newcastle United prepares for the upcoming season, the performances against Celtic will serve as a benchmark for improvement. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents like Anthony Elanga and Elliot Anderson provides a solid foundation for the team. With the right adjustments and continued development, Newcastle can aim for a successful campaign in the Premier League, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how the squad evolves in the coming weeks.Bookmark messageCopy messageExport