“I had my doubts at first”, Malick Thiaw admits,one thing about Newcastle has completely left him in awe since joining the club.

This is the first time in my career,” Malick Thiaw confessed in a heartfelt statement that has since caught the attention of Newcastle fans and football enthusiasts across Europe. The young German defender, who joined Newcastle United in a move that raised both excitement and curiosity, opened up about how life at St. James’ Park has completely changed his perspective on football, teamwork, and personal growth.

Thiaw admitted that his initial thoughts before joining the Magpies were filled with uncertainty and hesitation. Coming from AC Milan — a club rich in European history and dominance — the transition to a Premier League side still rebuilding its identity under ambitious Saudi ownership was not something he took lightly. He said he didn’t quite know what to expect, especially in a league known for its physicality, intensity, and demanding fans. Yet, what he found at Newcastle turned out to be far beyond what he imagined.

According to Thiaw, the most surprising thing wasn’t the Premier League’s fast tempo or the rough tackles, but rather the spirit inside Newcastle’s dressing room — the unity, humility, and collective hunger for success. “It’s something I’ve never experienced before,” he reportedly told close sources. “You walk into that dressing room, and you feel like everyone truly wants the same thing — to fight for the badge and for each other. It’s not about fame or personal glory. It’s about heart.”

That sense of togetherness is something many players have spoken about under Eddie Howe’s leadership. The English manager has been praised for turning the Magpies into a disciplined, hard-working unit where no one is above the team. Thiaw said that level of commitment and focus has left him “in awe,” especially given how the club has managed to maintain humility despite its rapid rise and financial backing.

The defender also highlighted how the Newcastle fans have played a major role in shaping his emotional connection to the club. “From the moment I arrived, they made me feel part of something special,” he said. “It’s not just about the noise in the stadium; it’s about how they carry that passion everywhere — on the streets, in the messages, in the chants. You feel it in your bones.”

Thiaw, still adapting to life in England, went on to describe the atmosphere at St. James’ Park as unlike anything he has ever experienced. “It’s not just a stadium,” he said with a smile. “It’s like a living, breathing heart that beats for football. You can feel it even before kickoff. The energy is contagious.”

Since joining Newcastle, the 23-year-old has impressed with his composure, aerial dominance, and reading of the game — qualities that have helped solidify the Magpies’ backline. But beyond the performances, Thiaw says his time in Newcastle has taught him lessons about resilience and mentality. “You can’t come here and be average,” he explained. “Every training session feels like a battle. Everyone wants to improve. Everyone pushes each other. It’s competitive but in the best possible way.”

He admitted that this culture of competition has changed him for the better. “I’ve become tougher, not just physically but mentally,” Thiaw shared. “In the Premier League, one mistake can cost you everything. But the team never lets you feel alone. The support system here is unbelievable — from the coaches to the fans, even the staff. You always feel backed.”

When asked about Eddie Howe, Thiaw couldn’t hold back his admiration. “He’s one of the most detailed managers I’ve ever worked with,” he said. “He knows how to motivate players without shouting or putting pressure. He speaks with purpose. He wants you to think, to understand why you’re doing what you’re doing. That’s rare.”

Behind the scenes, sources close to the club have mentioned how Thiaw has quickly blended into the squad, developing close bonds with teammates like Sven Botman and Fabian Schär. The chemistry among the defenders has contributed to Newcastle’s recent improvement in defense, despite injuries and tactical adjustments.

As Newcastle continues its journey under Saudi ownership, expectations have grown — but Thiaw believes that pressure only fuels the team further. “We know people are watching us,” he said. “They expect results, and that’s fine. But inside this team, it’s not about money or fame. It’s about the project, about building something real. That’s what’s surprised me most — the sincerity of it all.”

In closing, the young defender reflected on how far he’s come since his first day in England. “At first, I thought it would take time to adjust,” he admitted. “But now, it feels like home. There’s something powerful about being part of a club that believes in you — not just as a player, but as a person. Newcastle has given me that.”

For Thiaw, this chapter of his career has become more than just football. It’s a journey of rediscovery — of passion, purpose, and belonging. And as fans continue to sing his name across the terraces of St. James’ Park, one thing is certain: his awe for Newcastle United is mutual.

🗣️ “This is the first time in my career,” Thiaw said once again, smiling as he looked around the roaring stands. “I’ve seen a club that feels like family — where football means everything.”