Newcastle United’s impressive start to the new season has placed manager Matthias Jaissle in the spotlight, with Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa emerging as two of the biggest beneficiaries of his tactical approach.
Newcastle produced an impressive 2-0 victory over Tottenham, and the performance suggested that Jaissle is already getting more from players who were not always consistent under previous systems.
Elanga’s pace and direct running have provided Newcastle with another dangerous attacking outlet.
Wissa has also added movement and goal threat, giving the team greater flexibility in the final third.
The impressive performances have created optimism among supporters who were initially unsure about the appointment of Jaissle.
Rather than relying entirely on expensive new signings, the manager appears determined to maximise the players already available to him.
That could prove extremely important over the course of a long season.
Newcastle are expected to compete on multiple fronts, meaning squad depth and tactical flexibility will be crucial.
The victory over Tottenham also demonstrated the team’s ability to control difficult matches without needing to dominate possession for long periods.
Jaissle’s early success will inevitably increase expectations, but the manager still has plenty to prove.
The real challenge will be maintaining this level against stronger opponents.
If Elanga and Wissa continue to improve under his system, Newcastle could become one of the surprise packages of the Premier League season.