SHE’S BEEN MY ROCK: Nottingham Forest Star Anthony Elanga Stuns Fans with Surprise Engagement to Long-Time Girlfriend After Years of Private Romance

SHE’S BEEN MY ROCK: Nottingham Forest Star Anthony Elanga Stuns Fans with Surprise Engagement to Long-Time Girlfriend After Years of Private Romance
— In a heartwarming twist that has taken fans by surprise, Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga has announced his engagement to his long-time girlfriend, marking a rare glimpse into the footballer’s usually private personal life.
The 23-year-old Swedish international took to Instagram late Monday evening to share the joyous news, posting a series of intimate photos from what appeared to be a sunset proposal on a secluded beach. One image showed Elanga on one knee, ring in hand, while his visibly emotional partner stood speechless, hands covering her face. The caption read simply: “She said yes. My rock, my everything.”
Within minutes, the post garnered hundreds of thousands of likes and congratulatory comments from teammates, fellow athletes, celebrities, and fans alike. Among the first to comment were Forest captain Ryan Yates, who wrote “Buzzing for you, bro!” and Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, Elanga’s former teammate, who commented, “Big love, my guy. Congratulations to you both!”
While Elanga has always kept a low profile off the pitch, his relationship with his now-fiancée has been quietly ongoing for several years. According to sources close to the couple, the two began dating while Elanga was still a youth player at Manchester United. Despite the pressures of fame and a demanding football career, the pair have reportedly maintained a strong and grounded bond, choosing to keep their romance away from the public eye.
“She’s been his constant,” a close friend of the couple told a local outlet. “Through the highs and lows of football, transfers, and all the attention, she’s always been by his side. She’s supported him when no one was watching.”
The surprise engagement comes after a remarkable season for Elanga at Nottingham Forest. Since his transfer from Manchester United in the summer of 2023, the dynamic winger has become a key figure in Forest’s Premier League campaign, thrilling fans with his blistering pace, precise crosses, and growing maturity on the field. With several match-winning performances under his belt, including a memorable goal against Liverpool at the City Ground, Elanga has firmly established himself as one of the league’s most exciting young talents.
But while his footballing prowess has earned him headlines, it’s his personal revelation that has struck a chord with supporters. Fans quickly took to social media to express their joy and surprise, with many praising Elanga’s discretion and authenticity.
“Anthony Elanga just gave us the most wholesome football moment of the year,” tweeted one Forest supporter. “You can tell he really values loyalty and love. Wishing them a lifetime of happiness.”
Others commended the player for balancing a high-profile career with a meaningful private life. “In an age where everything is on display, it’s refreshing to see someone keep something for themselves,” one user posted.
Though the couple has not revealed specific details about the wedding plans, sources suggest they are in no rush and plan to celebrate the engagement with close friends and family before finalizing any dates.
Elanga’s announcement has also sparked renewed attention to the quieter side of athletes’ lives—away from the roaring stadiums, flashing cameras, and constant speculation.
In his brief but heartfelt caption, Elanga captured what many fans felt: a moment of real, unfiltered joy. For a player known for his discipline and humility, the engagement marks not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of enduring love and loyalty.
As Nottingham Forest prepares for another season in England’s top flight, Elanga enters this next chapter of his life with a new sense of purpose—on and off the pitch. And if this engagement is any sign, fans can expect plenty more to cheer about from their beloved winger, both in football
boots and wedding shoes.