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Elanga horror challenge sparks mass brawl as Newcastle star stretchered off
Aug 08 2026 22:49 · By Mark Wakefield,Sport Central Audience Writer · 18 Reads
Newcastle United’s new manager, Matthias Jaissle, rushed onto the pitch to protect Anthony Elanga after the forward was on the receiving end of a strong tackle from Valencia defender Jose Gaya.
The Magpies were taking on the La Liga outfit in a pre-season friendly on Saturday night at the Mestalla as they continued their preparations for the new Premier League campaign.
Jaissle was taking charge of Newcastle for the first time since taking charge of the club and replacing Eddie Howe, and was seen trying to protect Elanga after the Sweden international was on the floor after being tackled by Gaya.
Elanga was stretchered off the pitch in pain, but it’s believed that the Newcastle star is okay and was walking around the dressing room after receiving treatment.
The former Manchester United forward is believed to have suffered a contusion to the shin, but is thought to have avoided a serious injury.
Following the tackle, Gaya was shown a red card by referee Jose Martinez and the challenge led to a 25-man brawl.
Jaissle and his entire backroom staff rushed onto the pitch as Elanga lay injured on the turf following the tackle. Martinez took just three seconds to issue the red card to Gaya.
Newcastle were forced to substitute Elanga, with Jacob Murphy immediately introduced as his replacement, while Valencia were forced to continue a man down.
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Gaya's two-footed tackle sent Elanga airborne before he suffered a nasty landing, triggering fury from his Newcastle teammates.
William Osula was amongst the first to reach Elanga to assess his condition, with an immediate call made to substitute him.
The full extent of Elanga's injury remains unclear as he departed clutching his knee in distress, a significant setback for Newcastle considering his performance during the first half.
Elanga had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside decision in then first half and put in an impressive performance before the injury.
Newcastle then made four further substitutions at half-time as Aladji Bamba, Osula, Harvey Barnes and Leo Shahar were withdrawn.
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