“Yankuba Minteh’s Wild Celebration Sends Cryptic Signal to Newcastle United – Fans Demand Answers”
Yankuba Minteh Scores Against Former Club Newcastle United in Dramatic Return
Yankuba Minteh found the back of the net against his former club Newcastle United during Brighton & Hove Albion’s Premier League clash at the Amex Stadium. The Gambian winger opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a sharp run down the left, cutting inside before outwitting Tino Livramento and Sandro Tonali and firing into the bottom corner.
It marked the second time Minteh has scored against Newcastle this season—his previous goal came during the FA Cup fifth round at St James’ Park in March. However, this latest strike drew more attention for what followed: a curious celebration in front of Newcastle’s travelling support.
Minteh appeared to gesture in apology with his hands pressed together, only to immediately shake his finger and point to his shirt and the pitch, leaving fans baffled before teammates ushered him away. The meaning of his celebration remains unclear, though many are hoping the player sheds light on it post-match.
A Swift Exit from Newcastle United
Minteh’s journey with Newcastle was brief. Signed from Danish club Odense Boldklub for £7 million in 2023, he never made a competitive appearance for the Magpies. Following a standout loan spell at Feyenoord, expectations were high that he’d join Eddie Howe’s squad for the 2024–25 season.
However, Newcastle chose to cash in, selling the winger for £33 million—part of a financial strategy to stay within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and avoid penalties, including a potential points deduction.
Minteh Reflects on His Departure
Speaking to The Athletic, Minteh expressed no resentment over his sudden sale. “I didn’t know anything about it… I just heard from my agent they wanted to sell me. I said: ‘OK, if that’s the decision, I’ll go.’ I wasn’t upset,” he said.
“All I’ve wanted is to prove I can play in the Premier League, whether that’s at Newcastle, Bournemouth, or Brighton. Since coming to Brighton, I’ve fallen in love with the club. I’m happy and settled here now.”
He added: “I have nothing against Newcastle. That’s just how football goes. You think you’ll stay somewhere forever, and suddenly you’re on the move.”
Eddie Howe: Selling Minteh Was Painful, But Necessary
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe addressed the club’s decision to sell Minteh last October, acknowledging the financial pressures they faced. “It was the right call, even though it still hurts,” Howe admitted. “No matter how well Elliot or Yankuba perform elsewhere, it was a decision made for Newcastle’s long-term benefit.”
When asked if Minteh would have featured in his squad, Howe didn’t hesitate: “Absolutely. He would’ve played. We know how dangerous he is—his pace, strength, and lethal left foot make him a serious threat. We’ll have to be at our best to keep him quiet.”
