Anthony Elanga’s dazzling performance in Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United last night is being hailed as one of the standout displays of the Premier League season. The 22-year-old winger, who has been in scintillating form since his move from Manchester United to Forest, delivered a performance that combined blistering speed, clever positioning, and a composed finish that ultimately secured his team the win. His goal was the culmination of a stunning solo effort, and it has earned him widespread praise, with many comparing his electrifying pace to that of the legendary Usain Bolt.
What made Elanga’s goal even more extraordinary was the fact that it wasn’t just the speed of his sprint that left fans and pundits in awe, but the fact that he was controlling the ball as he powered forward. Sky Sports timed his sprint at an incredible 85 meters in just 9 seconds, showcasing his raw, untapped athleticism. To put this into perspective, Bolt’s world record 100m time stands at 9.58 seconds, and Elanga’s 85-meter sprint would have taken him an impressive 10.63 seconds if he were running the full 100 meters. While Elanga’s speed may not have matched the world record, what made his sprint unique was that he was doing it while maintaining full control of the ball. This is something that even the fastest sprinter on the planet, Usain Bolt, would struggle to replicate—especially with a ball at his feet.
What is most exciting for Forest fans, and even more so for Elanga himself, is the fact that this is just the beginning of what could be a remarkable journey. Elanga’s ability to combine his lightning pace with a growing footballing intelligence has made him one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League. His performance against United highlighted not only his pace but also his technical ability and mental sharpness. The goal was an indication of how far he has come since leaving Old Trafford in search of more regular game time.
The goal was a perfect showcase of everything Elanga brings to the table—he recognized the space, attacked it with ferocity, and finished with the composure of a seasoned forward. His pace left Manchester United’s defenders trailing in his wake, and once he was through on goal, he showed great maturity in choosing the right moment to strike. Whether it was with his left or right foot, Elanga’s finish was clinical, and it’s evident that he has been working on becoming more versatile in front of goal. After the game, Elanga spoke about his belief in his own speed, telling TNT Sports: “It is about attacking the space and getting to the opposite goal as quick as I can. I saw the space and I believe I’m one of the fastest players in the league.”
This self-assuredness is exactly what Forest needs as they continue to chase a European spot in the Premier League. Elanga’s confidence in his ability is reflected in his recent performances, and his assertion that he is among the fastest players in the league is not just bravado—it’s backed up by evidence on the pitch. When you combine his raw speed with his improving technical ability and decision-making, it becomes clear that Elanga is rapidly becoming one of the league’s most dangerous attackers.
Elanga’s rise at Nottingham Forest is particularly impressive when considering his time at Manchester United. Despite showing flashes of potential during his time at Old Trafford, Elanga often struggled for regular minutes in a squad brimming with talent. His decision to leave United in search of more first-team opportunities has been vindicated. At Forest, he has become a key figure in Steve Cooper’s attack, and his performances have been integral to the club’s success this season. Since his move, Elanga has found a platform to showcase his abilities, and his recent form has been a major reason why Forest is challenging for a spot in next season’s Champions League.
The victory over Manchester United was not just significant for Elanga, but for the entire team. With three consecutive wins in the Premier League, Forest has now firmly placed themselves in the top five of the table. Although there are still teams like Newcastle United with games in hand, Forest’s position on the table, combined with the quality of their performances, suggests that they are serious contenders for European football. Points on the board are valuable at this stage of the season, and Forest’s current form has them well on track to qualify for a European competition for the first time in several years.
Elanga’s importance to Forest’s success cannot be overstated. He has become a constant threat down the left wing, his pace enabling him to stretch defenses and create space for his teammates. His ability to exploit gaps in the opposition’s defense, as demonstrated against United, is something that not many players in the Premier League possess. And while speed is a key attribute, it’s his growing composure and decision-making in the final third that are setting him apart. Elanga’s ability to finish with both feet, something he has worked on extensively this season, adds another dimension to his game, making him an even more dangerous player.
Looking at the bigger picture, Elanga’s form is a huge boost for Nottingham Forest’s ambitions, and it’s clear that the club is reaping the rewards of investing in his development. While Manchester United may regret allowing him to leave, Forest has welcomed him with open arms, and they are now benefiting from his explosive performances. Elanga’s pace and ability to change a game in an instant have made him a key player for Forest, and his contributions are vital as they look to challenge for a place in Europe next season.
In addition to Elanga’s personal growth, Forest’s team dynamic has also been improving. With a solid defensive setup and a midfield that is working hard to support the attack, Forest is becoming a well-rounded unit. Their ability to soak up pressure and counter-attack with pace has been one of their most dangerous weapons, and Elanga’s form has been crucial in making this strategy successful. As teams like Newcastle United and Aston Villa, who are also chasing European spots, look over their shoulders, Forest’s rapid rise should not be underestimated.
As Elanga continues to improve, it’s clear that he is on track to become one of the Premier League’s most exciting young players. At just 22, he has the potential to become a fixture in the league’s elite group of players, and his continued development at Forest could set him on a path to even greater success. If he maintains his current trajectory, it’s not hard to imagine him being courted by bigger clubs in the future, but for now, he’s focused on helping Forest secure a top-six finish and a place in European competition.
In conclusion, Anthony Elanga’s performance against Manchester United was a masterclass in speed, skill, and finishing. His goal was a testament to his ability to change games with his pace, and it’s clear that he is only going to get better. With Forest’s top-five spot in the Premier League firmly secured for now, Elanga’s rise to prominence at the club is becoming one of the most compelling stories of the season. United may have let him go, but Nottingham Forest is reaping the rewards of having a player of his caliber in their squad. As the season progresses, Elanga’s contributions will likely prove to be pivotal in Forest’s push for a place in next season’s Champions League, and his future looks incredibly bright.