Eljero Elia

{{Infobox football biography

|name = Eljero Elia

|image = Eljero Elia02.JPG

|caption = Elia in 2012

|full_name = Eljero George Rinaldo Elia{{cite web |url=https://www.fifadata.com/document/fwc/2010/PDF_BackUp_2010_06_13/FWC_2010_SquadLists.pdf |title=FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010: List of Players: Netherlands |publisher=FIFA |page=20 |date=12 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018131759/https://www.fifadata.com/document/fwc/2010/PDF_BackUp_2010_06_13/FWC_2010_SquadLists.pdf |archive-date=18 October 2019}}

|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1987|2|13|df=y}}

|birth_place = Voorburg, Netherlands

|height = 1.76 m{{cite web |url=http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/profile.overview.html/eljero-elia |title=Premier League Player Profile Eljero Elia |author= |year=2015 |publisher=Premier League |access-date=12 January 2015 |archive-date=30 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150430113103/http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/profile.overview.html/eljero-elia |url-status=dead }}

|position = Winger

|currentclub =

|clubnumber =

|youthyears1 = |youthclubs1 = SV Voorburg

|youthyears2 = |youthclubs2 = TONEGIDO

|youthyears3 = 1996–2000 |youthclubs3 = ADO Den Haag

|youthyears4 = 2000–2002 |youthclubs4 = Ajax

|youthyears5 = 2002–2004 |youthclubs5 = ADO Den Haag

|years1 = 2004–2007 |clubs1 = ADO Den Haag | caps1 = 59 | goals1 = 6

|years2 = 2007–2009 |clubs2 = Twente | caps2 = 64 |goals2 = 11

|years3 = 2009–2011 |clubs3 = Hamburger SV | caps3 = 52 | goals3 = 7

|years4 = 2011–2012 |clubs4 = Juventus | caps4 = 4 | goals4 = 0

|years5 = 2012–2015 |clubs5 = Werder Bremen | caps5 = 66 | goals5 = 4

|years6 = 2015 |clubs6 = → Southampton (loan) | caps6 = 16 | goals6 = 2

|years7 = 2015–2017 |clubs7 = Feyenoord | caps7 = 55 | goals7 = 17

|years8 = 2017–2020 |clubs8 = İstanbul Başakşehir | caps8 = 68 | goals8 = 9

|years9 = 2020–2021 |clubs9 = Utrecht | caps9 = 21 | goals9 = 2

|years10 = 2021–2022 |clubs10 = ADO Den Haag | caps10 = 9 | goals10 = 0

| totalcaps = 414

| totalgoals = 58

|nationalyears1 = 2006–2008

|nationalteam1 = Netherlands U21

|nationalcaps1 = 7

|nationalgoals1 = 1

|nationalyears2 = 2008 |nationalteam2=Netherlands B|nationalcaps2=1|nationalgoals2=0

|nationalyears3 = 2009–2018 |nationalteam3=Netherlands | nationalcaps3 = 30 |nationalgoals3 = 2

| medaltemplates = {{MedalCountry|{{NED}}}}

|club-update =

|nationalteam-update =

}}

Eljero George Rinaldo Elia (born 13 February 1987) is a Dutch former professional footballer who played as a winger.

He turned professional at ADO Den Haag and then played for Twente before moving abroad to represent Hamburger SV, Juventus and Werder Bremen. In 2015, he came back to his home country to play for Feyenoord before moving to İstanbul Başakşehir, in 2017.

Elia scored on his debut for Netherlands in September 2009 and was part of the Netherlands squad which reached the final at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Club career

=Early career=

Born in Voorburg, Elia played as a youth for local side SV Voorburg, before it merged to become Forum Sport in 1998.{{cite news |last1=Zaanen |first1=Martin van |title=De verdwenen club waar ooit Eljero Elia, John Williams en Dick Sloos voetbalden |url=https://www.ad.nl/regiosport-den-haag/de-verdwenen-club-waar-ooit-eljero-elia-john-williams-en-dick-sloos-voetbalden~a2027498/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad |date=11 February 2021 |language=nl}}{{cite news |title=DE ROOTS VAN ELJERO ELIA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/8494/de-roots-van-eljero-elia |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=4 July 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} He later moved to cross-city rivals TONEGIDO and played in their youth department.{{cite book |last1=Hohensee |first1=Robert |last2=Huber |first2=Christoph |last3=Matheja |first3=Ulrich |title=Kicker Fußball-Almanach 2015 |date=2014 |publisher=Copress Sport |location=Munich |isbn=978-3-7679-1096-6 |page=338 |edition=1., Auflage}} In 1996, at age nine, Elia moved to the youth system of ADO Den Haag.{{cite web |url=http://ado-denhaag.web3.nl/pop-up.asp?spelerID=70&page=2 |title=Eljero Elia |publisher=ADO Den Haag |language=nl|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060127173942/http://ado-denhaag.web3.nl/pop-up.asp?spelerID=70&page=2|archive-date=27 January 2006|url-status=dead}} He then moved to Ajax in 2000. Elia reflected on his time at the club, saying: "Already as a kid I loved playing for that club. Walking across the street wearing a big Ajax bag, I thought that was great. That Amsterdam bluff also suits me, I think. Challenging, fooling around, just like on the streets. Making an opponent crazy, that's the best thing there is." At under-13 level, he was sent away: "Together with Nordin Amrabat and Jeremain Lens. They thought I wasn't making a difference often enough. No, I never actually played as a winger for Ajax. Usually I was right mid, sometimes right back and sometimes central in the defence. Henny de Regt told me at the time that I was not allowed to stay. I felt so awful."{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/165007/EliaDieAmsterdamseBlufPastOokWelBijMij.htm |title=Elia: 'Die Amsterdamse bluf past ook wel bij mij' |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=4 June 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090622174850/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/165007/EliaDieAmsterdamseBlufPastOokWelBijMij.htm|archive-date=22 June 2009|url-status=dead}} He then rejoined the youth system of ADO Den Haag two years later.{{cite web |url=https://adodenhaag.nl/nl/fans/ado-inside/trainingskampen/280-trainingskamp-2005-45 |title=TRAININGSKAMP 2005 – AKSU |publisher=ADO Den Haag |language=nl|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606145838/https://adodenhaag.nl/nl/fans/ado-inside/trainingskampen/280-trainingskamp-2005-45|archive-date=6 June 2021|url-status=live}} Then youth coach Carlos Roeleveld said: "I soon saw that he was special. But I also got a disappointed boy with whom I had to work. That was in the under-15. He was disappointed because he had been sent away from Ajax. He was thinking a lot."

=ADO Den Haag=

Elia made his professional debut for ADO Den Haag on 23 January 2005 against FC Groningen at age 17, coming on as 81st-minute substitute in a 3–0 loss.{{cite web |title=Starting Lineups – Den Haag vs Groningen 23.01.2015 |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/den-haag-vs-groningen/teams/57275 |website=skysports.com |publisher=Sky Sports|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=23 January 2005}}
{{cite news |title=Groningen neemt zomaar afstand van ADO |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/groningen-neemt-zomaar-afstand-van-ado |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=23 January 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} In his fourth appearance for ADO Den Haag, he scored his first goal in a match against AZ on 8 May, which turned out to be the winning goal, in a 2–1 win.{{cite web |title=ADO Den Haag vs. AZ Alkmaar – Football Match Summary – May 8, 2005 |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/match?gameId=183035 |publisher=ESPN|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=8 May 2005}}
{{cite news |title=ADO Den Haag speelt zich veilig tegen AZ |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/ado-den-haag-speelt-zich-veilig-tegen-az |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=8 May 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} In his first season at the club, Elia played four matches and scored one goal.{{citation needed|date=June 2021}} In his second season at ADO Den Haag, Elia soon established himself in the starting line-up, playing in midfield.{{cite news |title=FC Utrecht En ADO Den Haag in Evernwicht |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/utrecht-en-ado-in-evenwicht~b3190fb6/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=9 November 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ajax na winst op ADO weer in race Champions League |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/ajax-na-winst-op-ado-weer-in-race-champions-league~bc88f7e2/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=12 February 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} He scored his first goal of the 2005–06 season in a 2–2 draw against Ajax on 21 September.{{cite news |title=Ajax geeft winst uit handen |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/ajax-geeft-winst-uit-handen~b99f1c91/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=21 September 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} By the end of the 2005–06 season, he had made 30 appearances and scored 2 goals in all competitions.{{citation needed|date=June 2021}}

Elia continued to establish himself in the team in the 2006–07 season, playing in midfield.{{cite news |title=Voetbal: Topclubs blijven overeind |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/voetbal-topclubs-blijven-overeind~b8fca048/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=20 September 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Voetbal: AZ verspeelt koppositie |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/voetbal-az-verspeelt-koppositie~bae336f0/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=1 October 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Vreven terug in basisformatie ADO Den Haag |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/60402/vreven-terug-in-basisformatie-ado-den-haag/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=4 March 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} He scored his first goal of the season on 28 October 2006 in a 2–0 win against Heracles Almelo.{{cite news |title=ADO scoort en wint voor het eerst dit seizoen |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/ado-scoort-en-wint-voor-het-eerst-dit-seizoen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=28 October 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} He scored two goals in two matches between 16 December and 23 December 2006 against Willem II and NAC Breda.{{cite news |title=Eredivisie: Eerste zege ADO Den Haag |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/eredivisie-eerste-zege-ado-den-haag~bac38ff5/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=16 December 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=NAC Breda achterhaalt ADO twee keer |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/nac-breda-achterhaalt-ado-twee-keer |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=23 December 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} Along the way, Elia was dealing with injuries throughout the 2006–07 season.{{cite web |url=https://adodenhaag.nl/nl/fans/ado-inside/trainingskampen/281-trainingskamp-2007 |title=Trainingskamp 2007 – Aksu |publisher=ADO Den Haag |language=nl|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606150431/https://adodenhaag.nl/nl/fans/ado-inside/trainingskampen/281-trainingskamp-2007|archive-date=6 June 2021|url-status=live}} He finished the 2006–07 season with 37 appearances and 3 goals in all competitions.{{citation needed|date=June 2021}} However, ADO Den Haag's relegation, along with his some conflicts new coach Lex Schoenmaker and his lack of desire to want to play in the Eerste Divisie, contributed to Elia leaving the club at the end of the 2006–07 season.{{cite web |title=Elia: 'Ajax was voor mij onbespreekbaar' |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaAjaxWasVoorMijOnbespreekbaar.htm |website=vi.nl |publisher=Voetbal International|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=18 June 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071226051948/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaAjaxWasVoorMijOnbespreekbaar.htm|archive-date=26 December 2007|url-status=dead}}{{cite web |title=FC Twente haalt Elia |url=https://www.nu.nl/sport/1092737/fc-twente-haalt-elia.amp |website=nu.nl |publisher=NU.nl|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=28 May 2007}}

=Twente=

File:Eljero Elia.jpg in 2008]]

Following the end of the 2006–07 season, Elia was linked with a move to either Twente and Ajax, as they were interested in signing him.{{cite news |title=Twente hoopt op ADO-aanvaller Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/67561/twente-hoopt-op-ado-aanvaller-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=15 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} It was reported that Ajax's interest in signing the player was to immediately loan him out to ADO Den Haag for the 2007–08 season.{{cite news |title=Ajax wil Elia kopen en weer terugverhuren aan ADO |url=https://ajax.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/13907/'Ajax-wil-Elia-kopen-en-weer-terugverhuren-aan-ADO' |publisher=Ajax Supporters News |language=nl |date=21 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ook Ajax aast op ADO-talent Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/68181/ook-ajax-aast-op-ado-talent-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=22 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he opted to agree to join FC Twente.{{cite news |title=FC Twente strikt Kolk en Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/68717/fc-twente-strikt-kolk-en-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Twente bevestigt komst Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/68792/twente-bevestigt-komst-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteKloptAjaxEnHeeftEliaBinnen.htm |title=FC Twente klopt Ajax en heeft Elia binnen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=28 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081002083830/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteKloptAjaxEnHeeftEliaBinnen.htm|archive-date=2 October 2008|url-status=dead}} The move was confirmed the next day on 29 May 2007, with Elia signing a three–year contract with the club.{{cite news |title=Twente rondt transfer Elia af |date=29 May 2007|access-date=30 April 2013 |url=http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/1001/Sportwereld/article/detail/2275756/2007/05/29/Twente-rondt-transfer-Elia-af.dhtml |work=Algemeen Dagblad |language=nl|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/1001/Sportwereld/article/detail/2275756/2007/05/29/Twente-rondt-transfer-Elia-af.dhtml|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaTekentNuWlEnIsVoorDrieJaarTukker.htm |title=Elia tekent nu wél en is voor drie jaar Tukker |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=29 May 2007|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071226051953/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaTekentNuWlEnIsVoorDrieJaarTukker.htm|archive-date=26 December 2007|url-status=dead}}

He made his debut for Twente, coming on as a 72nd-minute substitute, in a 2–2 draw against FC Utrecht on 26 August 2007.{{cite news|trans-title=FC Utrecht keeps Twente 2–2 |title=FC Utrecht houdt Twente op 2–2 |url=http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/1001/Sportwereld/article/detail/2289104/2007/08/26/FC-Utrecht-houdt-Twente-op-2-2.dhtml |work=Algemeen Dagblad |language=nl |date=26 August 2007|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808041605/http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/1001/Sportwereld/article/detail/2289104/2007/08/26/FC-Utrecht-houdt-Twente-op-2-2.dhtml|archive-date=8 August 2014|url-status=dead}} Since joining the club, Elia became involved in the first team, having found his playing time, coming from the substitute bench before he soon won his place in the starting eleven.{{cite news |title=Aanvallend Twente bezorgt Feyenoord tweede verlies |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/79680/aanvallend-twente-bezorgt-feyenoord-tweede-verlies/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=27 October 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/JunkerStraftFoutenFCTwenteGenadeloosAf.htm |title=Junker straft fouten FC Twente genadeloos af |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=8 December 2007|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080110103840/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/JunkerStraftFoutenFCTwenteGenadeloosAf.htm|archive-date=10 January 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: "Arrogantie PSV gaf ons extra stimulans" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/93081/elia-arrogantie-psv-gaf-ons-extra-stimulans/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=14 April 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 8 February 2008 when Elia scored his first goal for FC Twente in a 2–1 win over Heracles Almelo on 8 February 2008.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteDankzijLateComebackLangsHeracles.htm |title=Twente dankzij late comeback langs Heracles |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=8 February 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080211174132/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteDankzijLateComebackLangsHeracles.htm|archive-date=11 February 2008|url-status=dead}} A month later on 23 March 2008, he scored his second goal for the club, in a 2–1 win over Ajax.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteNeemtLaatsteTitelhoopAjaxWeg.htm |title=FC Twente neemt laatste titelhoop Ajax weg |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=23 March 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080326180329/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteNeemtLaatsteTitelhoopAjaxWeg.htm|archive-date=26 March 2008|url-status=dead}} Elia played all four matches in the league's play–off for the UEFA Champions League spot and helped FC Twente earn a place in the tournament after beating Ajax 2–1 on aggregate.{{cite news |title=FC Twente verslaat NAC op weg naar finale play-offs |url=https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2008/04/30/fc-twente-verslaat-nac-op-weg-naar-finale-play-offs-11531105-a1191724 |work=NRC Handelsblad |language=nl |date=30 April 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Fragiele Hersi kracht van Twente |url=https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2008/05/05/fragiele-hersi-kracht-van-twente-11532578-a747224 |work=NRC Handelsblad |language=nl |date=5 May 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=FC Twente verslaat Ajax: 2–1 |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/fc-twente-verslaat-ajax-2-1~b27142a0/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=23 May 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ajax treurt, FC Twente schrijft geschiedenis |url=https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2008/05/19/ajax-treurt-fc-twente-schrijft-geschiedenis-11540063-a25446 |work=NRC Handelsblad |language=nl |date=19 May 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}} In his first season at the club, Elia made thirty–six appearances and scored two times in all competitions.

At the start of the 2008–09 season, Elia made his UEFA Champions League debut in the third qualifying round of the Champions League against English club Arsenal in the first leg, as FC Twente lost 2–0.{{cite news |title=Gunners sink McClaren's men |url=http://www.skysports.com/football/twente-vs-arsenal/report/1720 |publisher=Sky Sports |date=13 August 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the return leg, the club were eliminated from the tournament after they lost 4–0, losing 6–0 on aggregate.{{cite web |url=http://www.fctwente.nl/blog/2008/08/fc-twente-in-de-uefa-cup/ |title=FC Twente in de UEFA Cup |publisher=FC Twente |language=nl |date=27 August 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213210330/http://www.fctwente.nl/blog/2008/08/fc-twente-in-de-uefa-cup/|archive-date=13 December 2017|url-status=dead}} He then scored three goals in the first three league matches of the season against Roda JC, NEC Nijmegen and FC Volendam.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/RodaJCEnFCTwenteHoudenElkaarInEvenwicht.htm |title=Roda JC en FC Twente houden elkaar in evenwicht |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=30 August 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080912094155/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/RodaJCEnFCTwenteHoudenElkaarInEvenwicht.htm|archive-date=12 September 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/NECBederftHetFeestjeVanFCTwente.htm |title=NEC bederft het feestje van FC Twente |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=13 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915220355/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/NECBederftHetFeestjeVanFCTwente.htm|archive-date=15 September 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteBijVolendamMoeizaamNaarEersteWinst.htm |title=FC Twente bij Volendam moeizaam naar eerste winst |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=21 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081024122454/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteBijVolendamMoeizaamNaarEersteWinst.htm|archive-date=24 October 2008|url-status=dead}} This was followed up by scoring twice, in a 5–0 win against FC Emmen in the second round of the KNVB Cup.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteIsErgSnelKlaarMetPoverFCEmmen.htm |title=FC Twente is erg snel klaar met pover FC Emmen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=24 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081025071739/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteIsErgSnelKlaarMetPoverFCEmmen.htm|archive-date=25 October 2008|url-status=dead}} Since the start of the 2008–09 season, Elia improved under the new management of Steve McClaren, and continued to be a first team regular, playing in the midfield position.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCGroningenIsWeerDeBaasInHetElftalVanDeMaand.htm |title=FC Groningen is weer de baas in het Elftal van de Maand |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=3 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204050835/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCGroningenIsWeerDeBaasInHetElftalVanDeMaand.htm|archive-date=4 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Zaakwaarnemer Elia: "Bij Twente blijven serieuze optie" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/107976/zaakwaarnemer-elia-bij-twente-blijven-serieuze-optie/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=14 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/SolliedPrijstFCTwenteEnEliaUitzonderlijkeKlasse.htm |title=Sollied prijst FC Twente en Elia: 'Uitzonderlijke klasse' |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=26 April 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090429083512/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/SolliedPrijstFCTwenteEnEliaUitzonderlijkeKlasse.htm|archive-date=29 April 2009|url-status=dead}} Despite the club's elimination from the tournament, he played in both legs of the first round of the UEFA Cup against Stade Rennais and set up goal in the first leg, which proved to be vital, as FC Twente won 1–0 through away goal to advance to the UEFA Cup's group stage.{{cite news |title=Elia: "Rennes niet de moeilijkste tegenstander" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/102925/elia-rennes-niet-de-moeilijkste-tegenstander/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 August 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=FC Twente heeft in Rennes niet genoeg aan droomstart |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/fc-twente-heeft-in-rennes-niet-genoeg-aan-droomstart |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=18 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ook FC Twente bereikt groepsfase UEFA Cup |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/105123/ook-fc-twente-bereikt-groepsfase-uefa-cup/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=2 October 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}} His performance led the club began open talks with Elia over a new contract.{{cite news |title=FC Twente wil Elia langer vastleggen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/103329/fc-twente-wil-elia-langer-vastleggen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=4 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteWilSnelHandelenMetGewildeElia.htm |title=FC Twente wil snel handelen met gewilde Elia |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=29 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081002083836/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/FCTwenteWilSnelHandelenMetGewildeElia.htm|archive-date=2 October 2008|url-status=dead}} He then scored four more goals by the end of the year, including his first European goal in a 3–2 loss a to Manchester City on 6 November 2008.{{cite news |title=Alleen Janssen bij FC Twente geblesseerd |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/alleen-janssen-bij-fc-twente-geblesseerd~b42ef48c/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=18 October 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |last1=Bevan |first1=Chris |title=Manchester City 3–2 FC Twente |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/7697305.stm |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=6 November 2008}}
{{cite news |title=FC Eindhoven vs FC Twente |url=https://www.vi.nl/wedstrijden/2008/11/12/nederland/toto-knvb-beker/fc-eindhoven-vs-fc-twente |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=12 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/GroningenLijdtTegenTwenteVierdeNederlaagOpRij.htm |title=Groningen lijdt tegen Twente vierde nederlaag op rij |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=14 December 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217002557/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/GroningenLijdtTegenTwenteVierdeNederlaagOpRij.htm|archive-date=17 December 2008|url-status=dead}} In the January transfer window, Arsenal, Ajax and PSV were linked with a move to sign Elia after his break-out season for Twente.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaWeetVanSerieuzeInteresseClubsPremierLeague.htm |title=Elia weet van serieuze interesse clubs Premier League |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=19 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081218053420/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaWeetVanSerieuzeInteresseClubsPremierLeague.htm|archive-date=18 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Arsenal opnieuw op de tribune voor Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/108689/arsenal-opnieuw-op-de-tribune-voor-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=25 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/AjaxBereidtBodVoorOpFCTwente-aanvallerElia.htm |title=Ajax bereidt bod voor op FC Twente-aanvaller Elia |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=15 December 2008|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217235636/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/AjaxBereidtBodVoorOpFCTwente-aanvallerElia.htm|archive-date=17 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Ook PSV wil zich versterken met Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/111461/ook-psv-wil-zich-versterken-met-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=15 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Ajax had their bid rejected twice by the club in their efforts to sign the player.{{cite news |title=Ajax bevestigt interesse in Twente-aanvaller Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/109948/ajax-bevestigt-interesse-in-twente-aanvaller-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=16 December 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=FC Twente wijst 'beledigend' Ajax-bod op Elia af |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/110074/fc-twente-wijst-beledigend-ajax-bod-op-elia-af/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=18 December 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Twente shun Elia offer |date=21 December 2008|access-date=14 November 2012 |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/4677267/ |publisher=Sky Sports|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/4677267/|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Ajax heeft gewilde Elia nog lang niet binnen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/110931/ajax-heeft-gewilde-elia-nog-lang-niet-binnen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Komst Elia naar Ajax voorlopig van de baan |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/111297/komst-elia-naar-ajax-voorlopig-van-de-baan/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=13 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} It was reported on 15 January 2009 that he ended the transfer speculation by signing a five-year contract extension with FC Twente, keeping him until 2013.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaEnFCTwenteNogInGesprekOverContract.htm |title=Elia en FC Twente nog in gesprek over contract |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=15 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116000016/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaEnFCTwenteNogInGesprekOverContract.htm|archive-date=16 January 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaEnFCTwenteAkkoordOverNieuwContract.htm |title=Elia en FC Twente akkoord over nieuw contract |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=15 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090118230846/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaEnFCTwenteAkkoordOverNieuwContract.htm|archive-date=18 January 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=New deal on cards for Elia |url=http://www.espnstar.com/football/other-football/news/detail/item186070/New-deal-on-cards-for-Elia/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130122212316/http://www.espnstar.com/football/other-football/news/detail/item186070/New-deal-on-cards-for-Elia/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=22 January 2013 |work=ESPN Star|access-date=14 November 2012}}
{{cite news |title=Elia verlengt contract bij FC Twente tot 2013 |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/elia-verlengt-contract-bij-fc-twente-tot-2013~bbfe1226/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=17 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: "Blij dat transfer naar Ajax niet doorgegaan is" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/114035/elia-blij-dat-transfer-naar-ajax-niet-doorgegaan-is/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=18 February 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, Elia scored his tenth goal of the season, in a 4–1 win against NAC Breda on 4 February 2009.{{cite web |url=http://vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteWintOvertuigendVanNACEnStaatTweede.htm |title=Twente wint overtuigend van NAC en staat tweede |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=4 February 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090311060453/http://vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteWintOvertuigendVanNACEnStaatTweede.htm|archive-date=11 March 2009|url-status=dead}} He later added three more goals in the league, coming against FC Groningen, Roda JC and AZ Alkmaar.{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteVerslaatGroningenSimpelNaVroegeRodeKaart.htm |title=Twente verslaat Groningen simpel na vroege rode kaart |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=22 March 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090325044551/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/TwenteVerslaatGroningenSimpelNaVroegeRodeKaart.htm|archive-date=25 March 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/PerezVindtDeGatenInKwetsbareRoda-defensie.htm |title=Perez vindt de gaten in kwetsbare Roda-defensie |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=11 April 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414042054/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/PerezVindtDeGatenInKwetsbareRoda-defensie.htm|archive-date=14 April 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=FC Twente na winst op AZ zeker van tweede plaats |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/119467/fc-twente-na-winst-op-az-zeker-van-tweede-plaats/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=3 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the Dutch Cup, the club progressed to the final against Heerenveen, where Elia scored the opener, which would not be enough as Twente lost on penalties after Youssouf Hersi missed the decisive kick.{{cite web |author1=KNVB Media |title=2009: Heerenveen wint eerste KNVB Beker na strafschoppen |url=https://www.totoknvbbeker.nl/100-finales/2009-heerenveen-wint-eerste-knvb-beker-na-strafschoppen |website=totoknvbbeker.nl |publisher=Royal Dutch Football Association|access-date=9 June 2020 |date=13 March 2018}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/HeerenveenPaktKNVB-bekerNaStrafschoppen.htm |title=Heerenveen pakt KNVB-beker na strafschoppen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=17 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090520074154/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/HeerenveenPaktKNVB-bekerNaStrafschoppen.htm|archive-date=20 May 2009|url-status=dead}} Despite missing three matches during the 2008–09 season, he went on to make forty–seven appearances and scoring fourteen appearances in all competitions.{{cite news |title=Twente blessurevrij tegen Paris Saint Germain |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/109985/twente-blessurevrij-tegen-paris-saint-germain/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=17 December 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia maakt zich zorgen over liesblessure |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/112010/elia-maakt-zich-zorgen-over-liesblessure/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=23 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia geschorst voor return tegen Marseille |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/114194/elia-geschorst-voor-return-tegen-marseille/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=20 February 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} For his performance, Elia was named the Dutch Football Talent of the Year for 2009, adding to his burgeoning reputation as an emerging talent in Europe and Voetbal International's Team of the Season.{{cite news |title=Elia gekozen tot Talent van het Jaar |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/elia-gekozen-tot-talent-van-het-jaar~b56ea19c/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=12 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia is Netherlands' brightest young thing |publisher=UEFA |date=12 May 2009|access-date=30 April 2013 |url=http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association=ned/news/newsid=829214.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association%3Dned/news/newsid%3D829214.html |archive-date=1 December 2008 |url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/ElHamdaouiBlikvangerInElftalVanHetSeizoen.htm |title=El Hamdaoui blikvanger in Elftal van het Seizoen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=22 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603065808/http://www.vi.nl:80/NieuwsItem/ElHamdaouiBlikvangerInElftalVanHetSeizoen.htm|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}}

However, two months after signing a new contract, Elia announced his intention to leave the club at the end of the 2008–09 season.{{cite news |title=Elia ready for move |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/5096170/ |publisher=Sky Sports |date=24 March 2009|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11661/5096170/|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaInDeZomerMoetenZeMeVerkopen.htm |title=Elia: 'In de zomer moeten ze me verkopen' |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=23 March 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090326040209/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaInDeZomerMoetenZeMeVerkopen.htm|archive-date=26 March 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/OokFCTwenteWilVennegoorOfHesselinkTerughalen.htm |title=Ook FC Twente wil Vennegoor of Hesselink terughalen |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=27 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090530125859/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/OokFCTwenteWilVennegoorOfHesselinkTerughalen.htm|archive-date=30 May 2009|url-status=dead}} He said about leaving FC Twente: "It will be a club that suits me again. A club where I can grow again, as I have grown here."{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaZoektEenClubWaarHijVerderKanGroeien.htm |title=Elia zoekt een club waar hij verder kan groeien |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=5 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090505212816/http://www.vi.nl/NieuwsItem/EliaZoektEenClubWaarHijVerderKanGroeien.htm|archive-date=5 May 2009|url-status=dead}} Among interested were Schalke 04, PSV, Hamburger SV and Bayern Munich.{{cite web |url=http://vi.nl/NieuwsItem/OokArnautovicInHetVizierBijSchalke04.htm |title=Ook Arnautovic in het vizier bij Schalke 04 |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=22 January 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130030533/http://vi.nl/NieuwsItem/OokArnautovicInHetVizierBijSchalke04.htm|archive-date=30 January 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Ook PSV en Hamburger SV volgen Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/117227/ook-psv-en-hamburger-sv-volgen-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=1 April 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Gaal wil Elia naar Bayern München halen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/120813/van-gaal-wil-elia-naar-bayern-munchen-halen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=21 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}

=Hamburger SV=

File:HSV ELJERO ELIA.jpg in 2009]]

On 5 July 2009, Elia joined Bundesliga club Hamburger SV on a five-year contract, for a transfer fee of €8.5 million.{{cite news |title=Elia tekent voor vijf seizoenen bij Hamburger SV |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/123593/elia-tekent-voor-vijf-seizoenen-bij-hamburger-sv/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=4 July 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |title=Perfekt – HSV verpflichtet Elia! |language=de |date=5 July 2009|access-date=5 July 2009 |publisher=Deutsche Fussball Liga |url=http://www.bundesliga.de/de/liga/news/2008/index.php?f=0000130149.php&fla=1|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090708140910/http://www.bundesliga.de/de/liga/news/2008/index.php?f=0000130149.php|archive-date=8 July 2009}}
{{cite news |title=Elia-Transfer zum Hamburger SV ist perfekt |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/elia-transfer-zum-hamburger-sv-ist-perfekt-id445294.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=5 July 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Upon joining the club, he said: "I am very happy that there is now clarity. HSV is a wonderful club and is part of the top of Germany. I hope that I can take another step in my development at HSV and that I will succeed in staying with the selection of the Dutch national team towards the World Cup. South Africa is my dream."{{cite news |title=Elia: "Heel blij dat er nu duidelijkheid is" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/123603/elia-heel-blij-dat-er-nu-duidelijkheid-is/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 July 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}

However, Elia suffered a setback when he suffered a patella problems while training and was sidelined for a week.{{cite news |title=HSV mit einem Bein in nächster Runde |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-mit-einem-bein-in-naechster-runde-id67445.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=30 July 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} But Elia recovered and made his debut for the club, coming on as a 69th-minute substitute, in the first match of the season against SC Freiburg, in a 1–1 draw.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/freiburg-gegen-hsv-2009-bundesliga-938005/analyse |title=Bechmann bestraft den HSV |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=9 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130902011149/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/1/938005/spielanalyse_sc-freiburg-7_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=2 September 2013|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against Borussia Dortmund, he set up a goal for Paolo Guerrero, who scored fourth goal of the game, in a 4–1 win.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-dortmund-2009-bundesliga-938023/analyse |title=Zwölf Minuten euphorisieren den HSV |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=15 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130627184738/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/2/938023/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_borussia-dortmund-17.html|archive-date=27 June 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Ze Roberto und Elia die neuen Spassmacher |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107545654/Ze-Roberto-und-Elia-die-neuen-Spassmacher.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=17 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Seven days later on 23 August 2009, Elia scored his first goal for Hamburger SV, in a 4–2 win over VfL Wolfsburg.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/wolfsburg-gegen-hsv-2009-bundesliga-938048/analyse |title=Petric zieht den "Wölfen" den Zahn |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=23 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424142204/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/3/938048/spielanalyse_vfl-wolfsburg-24_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=24 April 2014|url-status=live}} He helped the club beat Guingamp 8–2 on aggregate in the UEFA Europa League's play–offs round to reach the group stage and contributed with an assist in the first leg.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/guingamp-gegen-hsv-2009-europa-league-qualifikation-974770/analyse |title=Guerrero und Petric stellen früh die Weichen |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=20 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016234227/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/uefa/qualifikation/europa-league-qualifikation/2009-10/4/974770/spielanalyse_ea-guingamp-1701_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=16 October 2012|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-guingamp-2009-europa-league-qualifikation-974808/analyse |title=Tesche empfiehlt sich |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=27 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016091816/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/uefa/qualifikation/europa-league-qualifikation/2009-10/4/974808/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_ea-guingamp-1701.html|archive-date=16 October 2012|url-status=live}} Since joining Hamburger SV, Elia quickly established himself in the first team, where he rotated in playing either the midfield or striker positions.{{cite news |title=Elia: onbekend fenomeen in de Bundesliga |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/127918/elia-onbekend-fenomeen-in-de-bundesliga/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=4 September 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-bayern-2009-bundesliga-938085/analyse |title=Petric bestraft schlafmützige Bayern-Abwehr |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=26 September 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009024625/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/7/938085/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_bayern-muenchen-14.html|archive-date=9 October 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-bremen-2009-bundesliga-938176/analyse |title=Jansen gibt die richtige Antwort, Wiese hilft mit |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=20 December 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202162521/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/17/938176/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia Ist Der Beste Spueker Des HSV |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article107609003/Eljero-Elia-ist-der-beste-Spieler-des-HSV.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=21 December 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=HSV verschärft Krise bei der Hertha |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-verschaerft-krise-bei-der-hertha-id3438352.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=6 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} But Elia found his role unsatisfying to play under the management of manager Labbadia.{{cite news |title=Elia will beim HSV bleiben |url=https://www.kicker.de/elia-will-beim-hsv-bleiben-525953/artikel |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=3 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}{{cite news |title=Elia kehrt gegen den Meister in-die Startformation zurueck |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article107635896/Elia-kehrt-gegen-den-Meister-in-die-Startformation-zurueck.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=28 January 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Mittelfeld Flitzer Eljero-Elia: "Ich habe gelernt" |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107652041/Mittelfeld-Flitzer-Eljero-Elia-Ich-habe-gelernt.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=23 February 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Unzufriedener Eljero Elia fordert: "Ich will lieber links spielen" |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107637738/Unzufriedener-Eljero-Elia-fordert-Ich-will-lieber-links-spielen.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=1 February 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Three weeks later on 12 September 2009, Elia scored his second goal for the club, and set up one of the goals, in a 3–1 win against Stuttgart.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-stuttgart-2009-bundesliga-938067/analyse |title=Petrics Traumtor ebnet den Weg |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=12 September 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203042030/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/5/938067/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_vfb-stuttgart-11.html|archive-date=3 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/169996/Het-gaat-bijzonder-hard-met-Eljero-Elia.htm |title=Het gaat bijzonder hard met Eljero Elia |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=14 September 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090923120949/http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/169996/Het-gaat-bijzonder-hard-met-Eljero-Elia.htm|archive-date=23 September 2009|url-status=dead}} He then scored his first Europa League goal in a 4–2 win over Hapoel Tel Aviv on 1 October 2009.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-h-tel-aviv-2009-europa-league-988969/analyse |title=Verdienter Sieg für den HSV |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=1 October 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107122013/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/uefa/spielrunde/europa-league/2009-10/2/988969/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_hapoel-tel-aviv.html|archive-date=7 November 2012|url-status=live}} A month later on 8 November 2009, Elia scored his fourth goal of the season and set up the opening goal of the game, in a 2–2 draw against Hannover 96.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hannover-gegen-hsv-2009-bundesliga-938134/analyse |title=Stajner bleibt der Schrecken des HSV |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=8 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130803054136/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/12/938134/spielanalyse_hannover-96-58_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=3 August 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia War Hamburgs Bester |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107585801/Eljero-Elia-war-Hamburgs-Bester.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=9 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he suffered an ankle injury in the 15th minute and was substituted as a result, as Hamburger SV drew 1–1 draw at Mainz 05 on 28 November 2009.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/mainz-gegen-hsv-2009-bundesliga-938154/analyse |title=Hoogland sichert die Serien der Mainzer |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=28 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227002932/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/14/938154/spielanalyse_1-fsv-mainz-05-30_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=27 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Verdacht auf Bänderriss bei Hamburgs Elia |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/verdacht-auf-baenderriss-bei-hamburgs-elia-id2176989.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=28 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} After missing one match, Elia returned to the first team from injury against 1899 Hoffenheim on 5 December 2009, coming on as a 61st-minute substitute, as the club drew 0–0.{{cite news |title=Hamburgs Elia erleidet "nur" Knöchelprellung |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hamburgs-elia-erleidet-nur-knoechelprellung-id2184748.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=30 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-hoffenheim-2009-bundesliga-938159/analyse |title=Ideenlos, schmucklos, torlos! |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=5 December 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130820081155/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/15/938159/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_1899-hoffenheim-3209.html|archive-date=20 August 2013|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against 1. FC Nürnberg, he scored twice and set up the second goal of the game, in a 4–0 win (one of the goals was later named Bundesliga Goal of the Month of December 2009).{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/nuernberg-gegen-hsv-2009-bundesliga-938173/analyse |title=Elia von Nürnberg nicht zu halten |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=12 December 2009|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140212232918/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/16/938173/spielanalyse_1-fc-nuernberg-81_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=12 February 2014|url-status=live}} However, Elia suffered ankle injury that saw him miss two matches.{{cite news |title=Hamburgs Holländer gegen die PSV Eindhoven |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hamburgs-hollaender-gegen-die-psv-eindhoven-id3421936.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=18 February 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} After missing two matches, he made his return to the first team from injury against Bayern Munich on 28 February 2010 and started the whole game, as Hamburger SV lost 1–0.{{cite news |title=Bayern fordert HSV, Hannover empfängt "Wölfe" |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/bayern-fordert-hsv-hannover-empfaengt-woelfe-id3427925.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=28 February 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bayern-gegen-hsv-2010-bundesliga-938238/analyse |title=Riberys Solo beschert den Bayern die Tabellenführung |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=28 February 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008232937/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/24/938238/spielanalyse_bayern-muenchen-14_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=8 October 2013|url-status=live}} However, his return was short–lived when Elia suffered ankle injury once again and was sidelined for four weeks following surgery, which manager Labbadia described as a "bitter blow".{{cite news |title=Elia fällt nach Knöchel-OP etwa vier Wochen aus |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/elia-faellt-nach-knoechel-op-etwa-vier-wochen-aus-id3448510.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=19 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia likely to miss rest of season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01e3-0e741c68b10d-6d59dc92a45a-1000--elia-likely-to-miss-rest-of-season/ |publisher=UEFA |date=19 March 2010|access-date=30 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.uefa.com/news/newsid%3D1466202.html|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/178035/Begripvolle-Elia-moet-boeten-voor-zijn-kritiek.htm |title='Begripvolle' Elia moet boeten voor zijn kritiek |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=23 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328113835/http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/178035/Begripvolle-Elia-moet-boeten-voor-zijn-kritiek.htm|archive-date=28 March 2010|url-status=dead}} But he made his return in the last game of the season against Werder Bremen, coming on in the 73rd minute as the club drew 1–1.{{cite news |title=Der Trumpf im Ärmel: Hier macht sich Elia fit für Werder |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article106505225/Der-Trumpf-im-Aermel-Hier-macht-sich-Elia-fit-fuer-Werder.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=5 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bremen-gegen-hsv-2010-bundesliga-938329/analyse |title=Pizarros Rekordtreffer sichert Werder die CL-Qualifikation |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=8 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004132410/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2009-10/34/938329/spielanalyse_werder-bremen-4_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=4 October 2013|url-status=live}} Despite missing sidelined with minor setbacks during the 2009–10 season, Elia made thirty–five appearances and scoring five times in all competitions.{{cite news |title=Bayern vor dem 'wichtigsten Spiel der Hinrunde' |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/bayern-vor-dem-wichtigsten-spiel-der-hinrunde-id2139057.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=28 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Die Null soll bei Borussia Dortmund stehen |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/bvb/die-null-soll-bei-borussia-dortmund-stehen-id2427698.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=22 January 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Ahead of the 2010–11 season, Elia was linked with several clubs such as Juventus, Bayern Munich and Valencia.{{cite news |title=Medien: Elia im Visier der Bayern |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/medien-elia-im-visier-der-bayern-id3452975.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=25 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title="Juve" will Hamburgs Elia |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/juve-will-hamburgs-elia-id3540533.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=1 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia, Zé Roberto, Boateng – jeden Tag ein neues Gerücht |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article107656691/Elia-Ze-Roberto-Boateng-jeden-Tag-ein-neues-Geruecht.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=25 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he knew nothing about a move and wanted to stay at Hamburg for another season despite expressing his desire to play in the UEFA Champions League.{{cite news |title=Elia eyes Hamburg stay |date=3 June 2010|access-date=14 November 2012 |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/6189637/ |publisher=Sky Sports|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/6189637/|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA LIJKT WEG TE WILLEN BIJ HSV |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/7118/elia-lijkt-weg-te-willen-bij-hsv |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=18 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA ZEGT NIKS OVER JUVENTUS |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/10838/elia-zegt-niks-over-juventus |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=13 August 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia started the season well when he set up the opening goal of the game for Ruud van Nistelrooy, who went on to score twice in the match, in a 2–1 win against Schalke 04.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-schalke-2010-bundesliga-1013227/analyse |title=Van Nistelrooy-Doppelpack bringt HSV den Sieg |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=21 August 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602175117/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/1/1013227/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_fc-schalke-04-2.html|archive-date=2 June 2013|url-status=live}} In his second season at the club, Elia was rotated in and out of the starting line–up and played less frequently, due to being on the substitute bench.{{cite news |title=Elia: "Wenn du mich auf die Bank setzt, gibt es Ärger" |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107698559/Elia-Wenn-du-mich-auf-die-Bank-setzt-gibt-es-Aerger.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=18 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Trochowski wieder im HSV-Kader |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/trochowski-wieder-im-hsv-kader-id3615507.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=27 August 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA MOET WAKKER WORDEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/13486/elia-moet-wakker-worden |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=24 September 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA MOET HET VAKER LATEN ZIEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/13594/elia-moet-het-vaker-laten-zien |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=27 September 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA: 'SLACHTOFFER VAN MACHTSSPEL' |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/24474/elia-slachtoffer-van-machtsspel |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=2 June 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he suffered a heel bone injury while on international duty and was sidelined for a month.{{cite news |title=Van Marwijk schickt Elia nach Hamburg zurück |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/van-marwijk-schickt-elia-nach-hamburg-zurueck-id3802657.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=7 October 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=HSV ohne Elia nach Mainz |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-ohne-elia-nach-mainz-id3831247.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=14 October 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Although Elia made a recovery, his return was delayed for the rest of November when he suffered a flu that saw him miss one match.{{cite news |title=Van Nistelrooy und Elia trainieren wieder |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/van-nistelrooy-und-elia-trainieren-wieder-id3951819.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=16 November 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Westermann und Demel wieder im HSV-Training |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/westermann-und-demel-wieder-im-hsv-training-id3980305.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=24 November 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia made his return from a two month absence, coming on as a 71st-minute substitute, in a 1–0 loss against SC Freiburg on 4 December 2010.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/freiburg-gegen-hsv-2010-bundesliga-1013371/analyse |title=Cissé sorgt früh für die Entscheidung |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=4 December 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130821060141/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/15/1013371/spielanalyse_sc-freiburg-7_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=21 August 2013|url-status=live}} This was followed up by scoring two goals in the next two matches against Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Mönchengladbach between 11 December 2010 and 18 December 2010.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-leverkusen-2010-bundesliga-1013376/analyse |title=Vidal trifft ins "falsche" und ins "richtige" Tor |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=11 December 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922084848/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/16/1013376/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_bayer-leverkusen-9.html|archive-date=22 September 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/mgladbach-gegen-hsv-2010-bundesliga-1013389/analyse |title=Rost hält die Punkte fest |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=17 December 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130920050417/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/17/1013389/spielanalyse_borussia-mgladbach-15_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=20 September 2013|url-status=live}} His performance continued to attract interests from European clubs in the January transfer window, but he ended up staying at Hamburger SV.{{cite news |title=HSV vor Gladbach-Spiel weiter mit Personalsorgen |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-vor-gladbach-spiel-weiter-mit-personalsorgen-id4061889.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=17 December 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=LIVERPOOL WIL ELJERO ELIA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/18310/liverpool-wil-eljero-elia |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=3 January 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA RICHT ZICH OP HSV |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/18570/eljero-elia-richt-zich-op-hsv |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=10 January 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=HSV WIL GEEN VERHUUR ELIA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/19234/hsv-wil-geen-verhuur-elia |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=25 January 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following the end of the January transfer window, he spoke about his struggles in the first team, with only nine starts made so far this season and was considering leaving the club if he did not regain his starting position.{{cite news |title=Elia weighs up Hamburg future |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/6752080/ |publisher=Sky Sports |date=14 February 2011|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/6752080/|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia fordert Stammplatz beim HSV |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/elia-fordert-stammplatz-beim-hsv-id4280123.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=14 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia was absent for the next three matches after being dropped from the squad by manager Armin Veh.{{cite news |title=HSV schießt Werder mit vier Toren ab |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-schiesst-werder-mit-vier-toren-ab-id4303944.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=19 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA KAN SCHOENEN WEER THUIS LATEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/20758/elia-kan-schoenen-weer-thuis-laten |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=25 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA MOET MEER LATEN ZIEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/20930/elia-moet-meer-laten-zien |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=1 March 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he made his return to the starting line–up against Bayern Munich on 12 March 2011, as Hamburger SV lost 6–0.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bayern-gegen-hsv-2011-bundesliga-1013464/analyse |title="Robbery" zeigen sich in Spiel- und Torlaune |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=12 March 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603193027/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/26/1013464/spielanalyse_bayern-muenchen-14_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=3 June 2013|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against 1. FC Köln, Elia played a role in the match when he set up two goals, in a 6–2 win.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-koeln-2011-bundesliga-1013476/analyse |title=Petric trifft dreimal bei Hamburgs Sechserpack |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=19 March 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922060941/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2010-11/27/1013476/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_1-fc-koeln-16.html|archive-date=22 September 2013|url-status=live}} However, further conflict between Elia and Hamburger SV's management when he felt no longer respected.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia kämpft gegen Marcell Jansen um den Startplatz |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107948314/Eljero-Elia-kaempft-gegen-Marcell-Jansen-um-den-Startplatz.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=3 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia: "Ich wurde nicht mehr respektiert" |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article108004773/Eljero-Elia-Ich-wurde-nicht-mehr-respektiert.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=21 April 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} At the end of the 2010–11 season, he went on to make twenty–five appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2011–12 season, Elia continued to be linked a move away from Hamburger SV and was expected to leave the club.{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA HOOPT OP TRANSFER |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/24082/eljero-elia-hoopt-op-transfer |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=24 May 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medien: Chelsea bietet rund 20 Millionen für Elia |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/medien-chelsea-bietet-rund-20-millionen-fuer-elia-id4785500.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=20 June 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=OOK ENGELSE INTERESSE VOOR ELIA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/27290/ook-engelse-interesse-voor-elia |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=29 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he announced his intention to stay at Hamburger SV.{{cite news |title=Arnesen: Elia ist weiter zu 100 Prozent beim HSV |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article108032723/Arnesen-Elia-ist-weiter-zu-100-Prozent-beim-HSV.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=22 June 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA: 'VEEL PRATEN' |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/25690/eljero-elia-veel-praten |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=12 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=HSV beendet Wechselgerüchte um Stürmer Elia |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/hsv-beendet-wechselgeruechte-um-stuermer-elia-id4949165.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=10 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA HEEFT HULP NODIG |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/27102/elia-heeft-hulp-nodig |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=24 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} Amid the transfer speculation, Elia made five appearances for the club.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/oldenburg-gegen-hsv-2011-dfb-pokal-1140235/spielbericht |title=HSV löst Pflichtaufgabe |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=30 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130517043923/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/dfbpokal/spielrunde/dfb-pokal/2011-12/1/1140235/spielbericht_vfb-oldenburg-33_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=17 May 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/dortmund-gegen-hsv-2011-bundesliga-1142231/analyse |title=BVB in toller Frühform – Großkreutz, Kagawa, Götze & Co. wirbeln den HSV auseinander |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=5 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518083759/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2011-12/1/1142231/spielanalyse_borussia-dortmund-17_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=18 May 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-hertha-2011-bundesliga-1143298/analyse |title=Mijatovic rettet Hertha hochverdienten Punkt |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=13 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130824000001/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2011-12/2/1143298/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_hertha-bsc-29.html|archive-date=24 August 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bayern-gegen-hsv-2011-bundesliga-1143306/analyse |title=Van Buyten leitet HSV-Untergang ein |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=20 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528143256/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2011-12/3/1143306/spielanalyse_bayern-muenchen-14_hamburger-sv-12.html|archive-date=28 May 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hsv-gegen-koeln-2011-bundesliga-1143316/analyse |title=McKenna raubt Hamburg die Hoffnung |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=27 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140128031712/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2011-12/4/1143316/spielanalyse_hamburger-sv-12_1-fc-koeln-16.html|archive-date=28 January 2014|url-status=live}} Towards the end of the summer transfer window, there was a tug of war over the player when Arsenal and Juventus wanted to sign him.{{cite news |title=Elia so gut wie weg – Suche nach Ersatz läuft |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article108091519/Elia-so-gut-wie-weg-Suche-nach-Ersatz-laeuft.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=26 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia on Arsenal's radar |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/7126664/elia-on-arsenals-radar |publisher=Sky Sports |date=26 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} It was reported on 29 August 2011 that he agreed to sign for Juventus.{{cite news |title=Medien: HSV-Stürmer Elia vor Wechsel zu Juventus |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/medien-hsv-stuermer-elia-vor-wechsel-zu-juventus-id5009457.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=29 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Il colpo Juve è l'olandese Elia E Rhodolfo arriva a gennaio |url=https://www.gazzetta.it/Calciomercato/29-08-2011/juve-scatenata-802649223338.shtml |publisher=La Gazzetta Dello Sport |language=it |date=29 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}

=Juventus=

On 31 August 2011, Juventus confirmed the signing of Elia from Hamburg on a four-year contract for a fee of €9 million.{{cite web |url=http://www.juventus.com/wps/portal/en/news/31august2011_elia_2015/ |title=Elia pens four-year Juventus deal |publisher=Juventus F.C. |date=31 August 2011|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021004608/http://www.juventus.com/wps/portal/en/news/31august2011_elia_2015/|archive-date=21 October 2012|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Juventus complete Elia deal |url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,12961_7139842,00.html |publisher=Sky Sports |date=31 August 2011|access-date=31 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,12961_7139842,00.html|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}

He made his debut for the club, starting the match and played 45 minutes before being substituted at half time, in a 1–1 draw against Catania on 25 September 2011.{{cite news |title=Juve, ancora un pari Il Catania sfiora il colpo |url=https://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/serie-a/catania/2011/09/25/news/catania-juventus-22204983/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=25 September 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} In a match against Bologna in the last 16 of the Coppa Italia, Elia set up a winning goal for Claudio Marchisio, who scored the second goal of the game, in a 2–1 win to help Juventus advance to the next round.{{cite news |title=Juve, è sempre Marchisio Il Bologna s'arrende al 102' |url=http://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/coppe/2011/12/08/news/juventus_bologna-26307472/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=8 December 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he found it hard to make an impact in the black and white shirt, due to the competitions in the midfield position.{{cite news |title=JUVENTUS BLIJFT GELOVEN IN ELIA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/29438/juventus-blijft-geloven-elia |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=18 October 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELJERO SPEELT AL MAANDEN NIET |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/30122/eljero-speelt-al-maanden-niet |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=4 November 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/nieuws/215658/Elia-begint-nu-te-snappen-wat-we-van-hem-verwachten.htm |title=Elia begint nu te snappen wat we van hem verwachten |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=8 February 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120514135037/http://www.vi.nl/nieuws/215658/Elia-begint-nu-te-snappen-wat-we-van-hem-verwachten.htm|archive-date=14 May 2012|url-status=dead}} Elia later made three more appearances for the club later in the 2011–12 season, as they ended up winning the Serie A title without losing a game.{{cite news |title=La Roma baby ferma la Juve |url=http://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/serie-a/roma/2011/12/12/news/roma_juventus-26500047/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=12 December 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Tre pali e gol annullato Juve, 'pareggite' acuta I bianconeri non-vanno oltre lo 0–0 sul campo |url=http://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/serie-a/genoa/2012/03/11/news/genoa_juventus-31356248/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=11 March 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Juve, poker al Novara Mani sullo scudetto |url=http://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/serie-a/novara/2012/04/29/news/novara_juve-34157664/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=29 April 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=La Juve è campione Il Cagliari è domato |url=https://www.repubblica.it/sport/calcio/serie-a/cagliari/2012/05/06/news/cagliari_juventus-34584745/ |publisher=La Repubblica |language=it |date=6 May 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, he announced his intention to leave Juventus in order to revive his career elsewhere.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia: I want to leave Juventus |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2012/05/08/3088742/eljero-elia-i-want-to-leave-juventus |publisher=Goal.com |date=8 May 2012|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511003741/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2012/05/08/3088742/eljero-elia-i-want-to-leave-juventus|archive-date=11 May 2012|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/nieuws/220696/Elia-stuurt-aan-op-vertrek-bij-Juve-na-mislukt-avontuur.htm |title=Elia stuurt aan op vertrek bij Juve na mislukt avontuur |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=8 May 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120611081013/http://www.vi.nl/nieuws/220696/Elia-stuurt-aan-op-vertrek-bij-Juve-na-mislukt-avontuur.htm|archive-date=11 June 2012|url-status=dead}} The following month, on 11 June 2012, Elia handed in a transfer request which was granted by Juventus.{{cite news |title=Juventus grant Elia permission to find new club |url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2012/06/11/3165397/juventus-grant-elia-permission-to-find-new-club |publisher=Goal.com |date=11 June 2012|access-date=11 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2012/06/11/3165397/juventus-grant-elia-permission-to-find-new-club|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}

=Werder Bremen=

File:Elia son.JPG in 2012]]

On 9 July 2012, Werder Bremen confirmed the signing of Elia from Juventus on a four-year contract for a fee of €5.5 million.{{cite news |title=Juventus confirm Elia exit |publisher=ESPN Soccernet |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1123713/juventus-confirm-elia-transfer-to-bremen?cc=5739 |date=10 July 2012|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1123713/juventus-confirm-elia-transfer-to-bremen?cc=5739|archive-date=1 December 2008 |url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |title=Wechsel perfekt: Elia zu Werder Bremen|trans-title=Wechsel complete: Elia to Werder Bremen |url=http://www.bundesliga.de/de/liga/news/2011/0000216448.php |publisher=DFL |language=German |date=10 July 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606131620/http://www.bundesliga.de/de/liga/news/2011/0000216448.php|archive-date=6 June 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.juventus.com/juve/it/news/Elia+comunicato+news+10luglio2012 |title=Elia al Werder Brema |publisher=Juventus FC |language=it |date=10 July 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120713032243/http://www.juventus.com/juve/it/news/Elia+comunicato+news+10luglio2012|archive-date=13 July 2012|url-status=dead}} Upon joining the club, he said: "I know all about this league, which is one of the best in the world with its full stadia and a very strong competition at a high level. I would like to make a quick impression here and recommend myself for a return to the national team with my performances for Werder Bremen.".{{cite news |title=Elia hoping for Bremen boost |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7887477/ |publisher=Sky Sports |date=10 July 2012|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7887477/|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}

Elia made his debut for the club in the first round of the DFB–Pokal against Preußen Münster and scored his first Werder Bremen goal before suffering a foot injury and was substituted in the 59th minute, which saw them lose 3–2.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/muenster-gegen-bremen-2012-dfb-pokal-1440316/spielbericht |title=Götze nutzt wie Reus gleich seine erste Chance |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=24 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130829044709/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2012-13/1/1441337/spielanalyse_borussia-dortmund-17_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=29 August 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia muss verletzt pausieren |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-muss-verletzt-pausieren-doc7e4jzhgekpv1mjq7tdl5 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=20 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he quickly recovered and returned to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 loss in the opening game of the season against Borussia Dortmund.{{cite news |title=Elia kurz vor der Rückkehr |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-kurz-vor-der-rueckkehr-doc7e4jzrst9k61etkfhfga |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=21 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia zurück im Werder-Mannschaftstraining |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-zurueck-im-werder-mannschaftstraining-doc7e5gj58j9snb8swkj0v |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=22 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/dortmund-gegen-bremen-2012-bundesliga-1441337/analyse |title=Götze nutzt wie Reus gleich seine erste Chance |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=24 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130829044709/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2012-13/1/1441337/spielanalyse_borussia-dortmund-17_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=29 August 2013|url-status=live}} Since joining the club, Elia quickly established himself in the first team, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news |title=Neues System mit Haken |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/neues-system-mit-haken-doc7e4k20nokegmbwkzdl5 |publisher=Wesert Kurier |language=de |date=27 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Werder hat eine Stammelf gefunden |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/werder-hat-eine-stammelf-gefunden-doc7e3cw2i3af5vqpsmnce |publisher=Wesert Kurier |language=de |date=22 September 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Wetten, dass . . . Elia oder Arnautovic treffen? |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/wetten-dass-elia-oder-arnautovic-treffen-doc7e3dm1xoj2pr1xjdrd |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=5 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Bei Werder fehlt die Balance |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/bei-werder-fehlt-die-balance-doc7e3drpm0u9scrxiu5su |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=9 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Die Kreativität hat fünf Namen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/die-kreativitaet-hat-fuenf-namen-doc7e4etokrd12h17zc7up |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=23 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, having made seven league appearances with no goals so far, he found it difficult to adapt to the club's playing style, but was willing to wait for his patient to score his first goal in the league for Werder Bremen.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia admits to struggling at Werder Bremen |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11888/8169040/Eljero-Elia-admits-to-struggling-at-Werder-Bremen |publisher=Sky Sports |date=16 October 2012|access-date=14 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11888/8169040/Eljero-Elia-admits-to-struggling-at-Werder-Bremen|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: "Habe jede Menge Geduld" |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-habe-jede-menge-geduld-doc7e450t5w2h51jums77yr |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=31 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia received criticism for his performance by the club's supporters and local newspaper Weser Kurier.{{cite news |title=Alles auf Anfang |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/alles-auf-anfang-doc7e4ennlkqp21je7dkckz |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=20 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA: 'SPEEL NIET ECHT GOED' |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/44566/elia-speel-niet-echt-goed |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=13 November 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Werder in der Einzelkritik |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/werder-in-der-einzelkritik-doc7e5k46ej8id9y72jm8b |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=9 December 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Mielitz hält de Bruyne auf Distanz |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/mielitz-haelt-de-bruyne-auf-distanz-doc7e4cirq88dj1gzqz3lg1 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=18 December 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Arnautovic überflügelt alle |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/arnautovic-ueberfluegelt-alle-doc7e4cvkbcd11rze3uoa |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=28 December 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} As a result, he was demoted to the substitute bench and found his playing time coming from the substitute bench.{{cite news |title=Schaaf baut Elia auf |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/schaaf-baut-elia-auf-doc7e3gu7c2u6hbdogld73 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=16 January 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Schaaf gibt Rätsel auf |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/schaaf-gibt-raetsel-auf-doc7e49ymv9abnmm9gsmw6 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=9 March 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eichin setzt auf den Lernprozess |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/eichin-setzt-auf-den-lernprozess-doc7e3oh9ag5w81qpw39ku |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=14 March 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}} In April 2013, Elia and his Werder Bremen teammate Marko Arnautović were caught speeding and were both suspended by the club.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/werder-suspendiert-arnautovic-und-elia-585353/artikel |title=Werder suspendiert Arnautovic und Elia |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=27 April 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130601121659/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/585353/artikel_werder-suspendiert-arnautovic-und-elia.html|archive-date=1 June 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/werder-bleibt-hart_kein-zurueck-fuer-arnautovic-und-elia-585453/artikel |title=Werder bleibt hart: Kein Zurück für Arnautovic und Elia |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=29 April 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603020001/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/585453/artikel_werder-bleibt-hart_kein-zurueck-fuer-arnautovic-und-elia.html|archive-date=3 June 2013|url-status=live}} Following this, he issued an apology to Werder Bremen supporters for his action.{{cite news |title=Arnautovic sieht sich als Opfer |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/arnautovic-sieht-sich-als-opfer-doc7e3dv9er4le1ju0k85su |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=2 May 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite being injury plagued throughout the 2012–13 season, Elia went on to make twenty–five appearances and scoring once in all competitions.{{cite news |title=Akpala und Fritz optimistisch |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/akpala-und-fritz-optimistisch-doc7e4eiz76f5xg0dom7up |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=17 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia gibt Entwarnung |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-gibt-entwarnung-doc7e4eqh3qr20z6s9ckz |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=22 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Prödl pausiert angeschlagen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/proedl-pausiert-angeschlagen-doc7e3gtfmvyep5hf8uhwl |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=15 January 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Der Wirbel um Elia |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/der-wirbel-um-elia-doc7e3h2l7yezdzu8w0fzw |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=23 January 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Ahead of the 2013–14 season, Elia returned to the first team from suspension and was featured in Werder Bremen's pre–season tour.{{cite news |title=Dutt plant mit Arnautovic und Elia |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/1-bundesliga/dutt-plant-mit-arnautovic-und-elia-id8074357.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=15 June 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bargfrede_knie-op-in-augsburg-588677/artikel |title=Bargfrede: Knie-OP in Augsburg |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=1 July 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130907211622/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/588677/artikel_bargfrede_knie-op-in-augsburg.html|archive-date=7 September 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/streit-zwischen-ekici-und-hunt-590113/artikel |title=Streit zwischen Ekici und Hunt |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=1 August 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130904165641/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/590113/artikel_streit-zwischen-ekici-und-hunt.html|archive-date=4 September 2013|url-status=live}} Amid to the start of the season, he was linked a move away from the club, as clubs, such as, Liverpool, CSKA Moscow and Ajax were interested in signing him, but the player ended up staying at Werder Bremen.{{cite news |title=ZSKA Moskau angeblich an Elia interessiert |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/zska-moskau-angeblich-an-elia-interessiert-doc7e3omzbmeshn0fws9ku |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=19 March 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/ajax-lockt-elia-und-blitzt-ab-591584/artikel |title=Ajax lockt Elia und blitzt ab |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=2 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007095140/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/591584/artikel_ajax-lockt-elia-und-blitzt-ab.html|archive-date=7 October 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia bei Liverpool im Gespräch |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-bei-liverpool-im-gespraech-doc7e39hc9bdvkcm1dno4w |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=25 June 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia made his first appearance for the club since being suspended in the opening game of the season against Eintracht Braunschweig and started the whole game to help Werder Bremen win 1–0.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/braunschweig-gegen-bremen-2013-bundesliga-1894566/analyse |title=Junuzovic jubelt: Löwen zahlen Lehrgeld |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=10 August 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131229090240/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/1/1894566/spielanalyse_eintracht-braunschweig-41_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=29 December 2013|url-status=live}} Since then, he continued to establish himself in the first team, playing in the midfield position or striker position.{{cite news |title=Dutt: "Bei Elia wird es eng" |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/dutt-bei-elia-wird-es-eng-doc7e3lkjp38gi170jqz144 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=2 August 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Nutzt Elia seine Chance? |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/nutzt-elia-seine-chance-doc7e3o13aow3o9yvj779b |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=4 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Kurzarbeit in der Torfabrik |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/kurzarbeit-in-der-torfabrik-doc7e49lgypqz418rcxp5oc |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=12 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Sturm ohne Stürmer |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/sturm-ohne-stuermer-doc7e3sn82h4qg16d87wjvx |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=22 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia in der Zwickmühle |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-in-der-zwickmuehle-doc7e44u3chtwz1029wgd5d |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=16 January 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia also earned redemption from the club's supporters, who didn't want him in the first team.{{cite news |title=Fans glauben nicht an Elia |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/fans-glauben-nicht-an-elia-doc7e499h0bng2121ze14u0 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=6 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia rechtfertigt Werders Vertrauen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/sport/elia-rechtfertigt-werders-vertrauen-doc7e3lrkydlieqdrhd1pe |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=1 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Schalke flankt Werder müde |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/schalke-flankt-werder-muede-doc7e3qnwa1r0pnvs8jl5b |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=10 November 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Garcia ist der Fan-Liebling |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/garcia-ist-der-fan-liebling-doc7e45ome8lx5nj0jg77g |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=3 January 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia weckt große Hoffnungen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-weckt-grosse-hoffnungen-doc7e448gtskzmuudph7gt |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=10 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 30 September 2013 when he scored his first goals for Werder Bremen, in a 3–3 draw against 1. FC Nürnberg on 29 September 2013.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bremen-gegen-nuernberg-2013-bundesliga-1894931/analyse |title=Hlousek sorgt für die Punkteteilung |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=29 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207012714/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/7/1894931/spielanalyse_werder-bremen-4_1-fc-nuernberg-81.html|archive-date=7 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/elia_ich-haette-lieber-nicht-getroffen-592901/artikel |title=Elia: "Ich hätte lieber nicht getroffen" |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=30 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004101831/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/592901/artikel_elia_ich-haette-lieber-nicht-getroffen.html|archive-date=4 October 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia nutzt zweite Chance – und begeistert Trainer Dutt |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article120513961/Elia-nutzt-zweite-Chance-und-begeistert-Trainer-Dutt.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=30 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Schwere Gedanken sind weg |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/schwere-gedanken-sind-weg-doc7e3lq9ffrfa1hqkfq159 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=30 September 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elias Versprechen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elias-versprechen-doc7e3lqz9dj8lamatg2a4 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=1 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then scored two goals in two matches between 24 November 2013 and 30 November 2013, coming against 1. FSV Mainz 05 and 1899 Hoffenheim respectively.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bremen-gegen-mainz-2013-bundesliga-1894984/analyse |title=Mielitz im Tiefschlaf, Karius hellwach |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=24 November 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204142051/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/13/1894984/spielanalyse_werder-bremen-4_1-fsv-mainz-05-30.html|archive-date=4 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Eight goals, three penalties and a goalkeeper substitution|trans-title=Acht Tore, drei Elfmeter und ein Torwartwechsel |url=https://www.kicker.de/hoffenheim-gegen-bremen-2013-bundesliga-1894997/analyse |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=30 November 2013|access-date=25 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204235624/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/14/1894997/spielanalyse_1899-hoffenheim-3209_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=4 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia 'zu emotional' |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-zu-emotional-doc7e3s8yoxqcptrfwwlp9 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=2 December 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}} Since the start of the 2013–14 season, he appeared in every match until missing one match due to being on the substitute bench against 1.FC Nuremberg on 8 March 2014, having previously been placed on the substitute bench in recent matches.{{cite news |title=Mit Dutt in die Zukunft |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/mit-dutt-in-die-zukunft-doc7e46ppvx4ucfu9988r3 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=9 February 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Werder holt im Heimspiel Punkt gegen Gladbach 1:1 gewonnen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/1-1-gewonnen-doc7e47gt0rt75sil789ow |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=16 February 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Der Kampf um die Plätze |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/der-kampf-um-die-plaetze-doc7e4arpu6qcmrv83yos6 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=5 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ich spiele gerne mit der Raute |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/ich-spiele-gerne-mit-der-raute-doc7e4bdokhd2h1d0xgf2ed |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=13 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} After missing one match, Elia returned to the first team against Stuttgart on 15 March 2014, coming on as a 73rd-minute substitute, in a 1–1 draw.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bremen-gegen-stuttgart-2014-bundesliga-1895092/analyse |title=Hunt bestraft erneut fahrlässige Stuttgarter |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=15 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407215244/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/25/1895092/spielanalyse_werder-bremen-4_vfb-stuttgart-11.html|archive-date=7 April 2016|url-status=live}} He then continued to be involved in the first team for the rest of the 2013–14 season.{{cite news |title=Dutt hat viele Optionen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/dutt-hat-viele-optionen-doc7e43jdwh2zs4j96q9ud |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=4 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia blüht auf |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/eljero-elia-blueht-auf-doc7e43xpchm6e1a28g7xj |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=7 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Müssen unsere Rolle neu finden |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/muessen-unsere-rolle-neu-finden-doc7e4509fb7b82rzul5o0 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=23 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia vor Rückkehr in die Startelf |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/sport/elia-vor-rueckkehr-in-die-startelf-doc7e3g6pk6hlw13uz1lbgl |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=3 May 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ein Bremer mit Gerd-Müller-Quote |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/ein-bremer-mit-gerd-mueller-quote-doc7e3giwq1rjovscd4fzw |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=13 May 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then played a contribution for the club when he set up two goals in two matches between 30 March 2014 and 5 April 2014, coming against Hannover 96 and Schalke 04 respectively.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/hannover-gegen-bremen-2014-bundesliga-1895122/analyse |title=Prödl sorgt für den Bremer Befreiungsschlag |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=30 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304103709/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/28/1895122/spielanalyse_hannover-96-58_werder-bremen-4.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/bremen-gegen-schalke-2014-bundesliga-1895128/analyse |title=Goretzka-Gewaltschuss folgt auf di-Santo-Tunnel |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=5 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226022213/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/spieltag/1-bundesliga/2013-14/29/1895128/spielanalyse_werder-bremen-4_fc-schalke-04-2.html|archive-date=26 December 2015|url-status=live}} Despite missing suffering injuries on two occasions throughout the 2013–14 season, Elia went on to make thirty–three appearances and scoring four times in all competitions.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/elia-fehlt-werder-in-saarbruecken-590190/artikel |title=Elia fehlt Werder in Saarbrücken |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=3 August 2013|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131205170329/http://www.kicker.de:80/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/590190/artikel_elia-fehlt-werder-in-saarbruecken.html|archive-date=5 December 2013|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Bremer Elia erleidet Beckenkammprellung |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/bremer-elia-erleidet-beckenkammprellung-doc7e3nxktplpsv2s1741x |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=18 August 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Weniger Tempo beim Training |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/weniger-tempo-beim-training-doc7e3lyqk1rrbf1czl159 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=8 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia ist fit für Freiburg |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-ist-fit-fuer-freiburg-doc7e3m2ybpmexihym22a4 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=12 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia und Schmitz fehlen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/sport/elia-und-schmitz-fehlen-doc7e3xetxej2p65091br9 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=18 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} The 2013–14 season was an improvement for the player, as his performance convinced Werder Bremen decided against selling him.{{cite news |title=Elia liebäugelt mit Wechsel |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-liebaeugelt-mit-wechsel-doc7e47vasmeci193niana5 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=20 February 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Werders offene Personalien |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/werders-offene-personalien-doc7e3xeuqt3tw14qxcphqf |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=18 March 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Dutt will Elia behalten |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/dutt-will-elia-behalten-doc7e3g1uwj7lybocjudhc |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=29 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Transfer News: Werder Bremen's Aaron Hunt yet to find new club |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11065/9298468/transfer-news-werder-bremens-aaron-hunt-yet-to-find-new-club |publisher=Sky Sports |date=5 May 2014|access-date=30 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230194250/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11065/9298468/transfer-news-werder-bremens-aaron-hunt-yet-to-find-new-club|archive-date=30 December 2014|url-status=dead}}

In the opening game of the 2014–15 season, Elia made a good start when he provided an assist for Franco Di Santo in a 2–2 draw against Hertha BSC.{{cite news |title=SCHIEBER BRACE NOT ENOUGH FOR BERLIN |url=http://www.bundesliga.com/en/liga/news/2014/0000299924.php |publisher=Bundesliga Official Website |date=23 August 2014|access-date=30 December 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230190251/http://www.bundesliga.com/en/liga/news/2014/0000299924.php|archive-date=30 December 2014}} Elia then appeared in a number of matches in the first team, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news |title=Das sind Dutts Optionen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/das-sind-dutts-optionen-doc7e48iw15uqwr237o4jx |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=11 August 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Klares Votum: Elia soll stürmen |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/klares-votum-elia-soll-stuermen-doc7e36tk3bjg4nc8br5ii |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=15 August 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia wünscht sich andere Rolle |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-wuenscht-sich-andere-rolle-doc7e38vnsvbf4s5xyg33h |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=3 September 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he was dropped from the squad for two matches after his poor performance in Werder Bremen's match, in a lost 6–0 against Bayern Munich on 18 October 2014.{{cite news |title=Das nächste Werder-Debakel |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/das-naechste-werder-debakel-doc7e3o7s0kfme16w8599ku |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=18 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Spieler stehen hinter Dutt |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/sport/spieler-stehen-hinter-dutt-doc7e3o8g2dih01eehsh79b |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=20 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Dutt vor dem Ende |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/dutt-vor-dem-ende-doc7e3oeyqjnz41gow1y9ku |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=24 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Skripnik streicht Makiadi und Elia |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/skripnik-streicht-makiadi-und-elia-doc7e3oiutmck6muv2f81s |publisher=Wesier Kurier |language=de |date=27 August 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} But Elia made his return to the starting line–up against Stuttgart on 8 November 2014 and played 56 minutes before being substituted, in a 2–0 win.{{cite news |title=Elia ist zurück, Caldirola ist raus |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-ist-zurueck-caldirola-ist-raus-doc7e3l9eas1ol1ia1ccjmv |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=8 November 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Werder schlägt Stuttgart |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/werder-schlaegt-stuttgart-doc7e3lamqbale9dg34jmu |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=8 November 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, his return to the first team was short–lived when manager Viktor Skrypnyk decided to drop the player from the first team matchday squad the following month.{{cite news |title=Trotz Personalnot: Elia nicht im Kader |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/trotz-personalnot-elia-nicht-im-kader-doc7e4ekxnvo74yek8yfww |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=28 November 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia erfüllt Skripniks Erwartungen nicht |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-erfuellt-skripniks-erwartungen-nicht-doc7e4eph601x4g8tgfbxh |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=1 December 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Skripnik streicht Elia aus Kader |url=https://www.kicker.de/skripnik-streicht-elia-aus-kader-616946/artikel |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=6 December 2014|access-date=30 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150428090510/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/startseite/616946/artikel_skripnik-streicht-elia-aus-kader.html|archive-date=28 April 2015|url-status=live}} Halfway through the 2014–15 season, he was sidelined on three occasions, due to injuries.{{cite news |title=Blessuren aus Berlin |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/blessuren-aus-berlin-doc7e380rz20t35e211o3d |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=25 August 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Dutt: "Das wird richtige Knochenarbeit" |url=https://www.kicker.de/dutt_das-wird-richtige-knochenarbeit-612346/artikel |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=24 September 2014|access-date=30 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140926010329/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/vereine/612346/artikel_dutt_das-wird-richtige-knochenarbeit.html|archive-date=26 September 2014|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Fritz auf dem Weg der Besserung |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/fritz-auf-dem-weg-der-besserung-doc7e3opqzag0041tw7lxg |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=31 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}} By the time Elia left the club in the January transfer window, he made ten appearances in all competitions. Elia was later critical of Werder Bremen's management.{{cite news |title=Elia: Harte Vorwürfe gegen Werders Klubführung |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-harte-vorwuerfe-gegen-werders-klubfuehrung-doc7e3dzx03x921g5ko7302 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=2 January 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Upon returning to his parent club from Southampton in the summer of 2015, Elia said he doesn't want to return to Werder Bremen on the following season.{{cite news |title=Elia will nicht zum SV Werder zurück |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-will-nicht-zum-sv-werder-zurueck-doc7e3vj5iyu51rhrh7de3 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=12 May 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} As a result, the Die Grün-Weißen exempted Elia from regular first-team training to find a new club and also considered placing him into the club's reserve.{{cite news |title=Fußball Di Santo will bleiben – Elia und Obraniak freigestellt |url=http://www.n24.de/n24/Sport/Fussball/d/6908610/di-santo-will-bleiben---elia-und-obraniak-freigestellt.html |publisher=N24.de |language=de |date=1 July 2015|access-date=18 July 2015}}
{{cite news |title=Bremen stellt Elia und Obraniak für Vereinssuche frei |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/1-bundesliga/bremen-stellt-elia-und-obraniak-fuer-vereinssuche-frei-id10838183.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=1 July 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} While waiting for the offer, he trained with Werder Bremen for the rest of July.{{cite news |title=Obraniak und Elia vor Rückkehr ins Training |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/obraniak-und-elia-vor-rueckkehr-ins-training-doc7e3tg9wue932ew3s4h9 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=1 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}

==Southampton (loan)==

Having hinted about leaving Werder Bremen in the January transfer window, Southampton announced on 23 December 2014, that Elia would join them on loan from 3 January 2015 for the remainder of the season, with an option to make the loan permanent at the end of the season.{{cite news |title=Werder wünscht Verkauf |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/werder-wuenscht-verkauf-doc7e4anakew7k1inyhs6h5 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=7 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia will offenbar möglichst schnell weg |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/elia-will-offenbar-moeglichst-schnell-weg-doc7e4fn6dbqn8fz6bzlm6 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=12 December 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |title=Saints to sign Elia on loan |url=http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/20141224-eljero-elia-signing-southampton-loan-2162424.aspx |publisher=Southampton FC|access-date=24 December 2014 |date=23 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141223211225/http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/20141224-eljero-elia-signing-southampton-loan-2162424.aspx|archive-date=23 December 2014|url-status=dead}} Upon joining the club, he said: "It's a dream that I can play at Southampton. The club wanted me and the coach has played an important role in that. I have only heard good stories about Ronald Koeman and I hope he can show me the way to new success."{{cite news |title=Elia staat te trappelen: "Spelen voor Southampton een droom" |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/268654/elia-staat-te-trappelen-spelen-voor-southampton-een-droom/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 December 2014|access-date=18 June 2021}}

On 11 January 2015, Elia made his Premier League debut for Southampton in a 1–0 win away to Manchester United at Old Trafford; he was replaced by substitute Dušan Tadić after 63 minutes, who went on to score the winning goal.{{cite news |title=Saints beat Man Utd to move third |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30670763 |work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 January 2015 |date=11 January 2015}} Elia scored his first Premier League goals with a brace in a 2–1 victory at Newcastle United on 17 January.{{cite news |url=http://www.espnfc.us/barclays-premier-league/match/395568/newcastle-united-southampton/report |title=Eljero Elia double sees Southampton past Newcastle United |work=PA Sport |publisher=ESPN |date=17 January 2015|access-date=17 January 2015}} Since joining the club, he was involved in a number of first team matches for the rest of the season.{{cite news |title=Southampton FC on course for Champions League place after 1–0 over Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11779382.southampton-fc-on-course-for-champions-league-place-after-1-0-over-queens-park-rangers-at-loftus-road/ |work=Daily Echo |date=9 February 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia: West Ham only came for a draw against Southampton, but Saints must do better at breaking defensive teams down |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11787196.eljero-elia-west-ham-only-came-for-a-draw-against-southampton-but-saints-must-do-better-at-breaking-defensive-teams-down/ |work=Daily Echo |date=12 February 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite missing one match through injury, Elia went on to make seventeen appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.{{cite news |title=Chelsea 1–1 Southampton: Dusan Tadic's penalty cancels out Diego Costa's opening goal |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11857303.chelsea-1-1-southampton-dusan-tadics-penalty-cancels-out-diego-costas-opening-goal/ |work=Daily Echo |date=15 March 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia is fit to return to the Southampton squad to face Burnley after an ankle injury |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11868100.eljero-elia-is-fit-to-return-to-the-southampton-squad-to-face-burnley-after-an-ankle-injury/ |work=Daily Echo |date=19 March 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, he was keen to stay at the club permanently.{{cite web | url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/12943577.eljero-elia-hopes-that-he-can-make-his-loan-switch-from-werder-bremen-to-southampton-permanent-this-summer/ | title=Elia: I would love to stay at Southampton }} It came after when Werder Bremen's chief director claimed Southampton wanted to sign him permanently.{{cite news |title=Southampton want permanent deal for Eljero Elia – Werder chief |url=http://www.espnfc.com/story/2504147/southampton-want-to-seal-permanent-eljero-elia-deal |publisher=ESPN |date=25 June 2015|access-date=13 July 2015}} Elia, himself, said he was keen to join the club permanently.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia hopes that he can make his loan switch from Werder Bremen to Southampton permanent this summer |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/12943577.eljero-elia-hopes-that-he-can-make-his-loan-switch-from-werder-bremen-to-southampton-permanent-this-summer/ |work=Daily Echo |date=12 May 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Southampton opted against signing a permanent deal for the player, as the clause reportedly cost €5.5m (about £4m), which "has been seen as too expensive" for the club.{{cite news |title=Southampton continuing to negotiate a deal for Werder Bremen winger Eljero Elia |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/13354528.southampton-continuing-to-negotiate-a-deal-for-werder-bremen-winger-eljero-elia/ |work=Daily Echo |date=26 June 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite this, Southampton was still keen to sign Elia.{{cite news |title=Treffen mit Elias Ex-Klub |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/profis/treffen-mit-elias-ex-klub-doc7e3ja2nzfdzopkifkq3 |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=10 July 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}

=Feyenoord=

{{quote box|width=33%|align=right|quote="I think Elia covers twenty meters in a second, so I need more help. Once he gets going, he’s unstoppable. You can bring him down, but at some point, you’ve got enough cards and can’t do that anymore. As soon as he starts coming after you, it gets difficult. The fact is, he’s fast, and there’s nothing I can do about that."|source=—Bram van Polen commends Elia for his performance in the 2–0 loss of PEC Zwolle against Feyenoord on 27 September 2015.{{cite news |title=Once Elia is firmly in the game, nobody can stop him |newspaper=Voetbal International |date=27 September 2015 |url=http://www.vi.nl/nieuws/als-elia-eenmaal-op-gang-is-is-hij-niet-te-houden.htm |access-date=28 September 2015}}}}

On 6 August 2015, Elia signed a two-year deal with Dutch side Feyenoord under the management of former Arsenal player Giovanni van Bronckhorst instead of joining Southampton.{{cite web |url=https://www.kicker.de/elia-auf-dem-sprung-zu-feyenoord-632136/artikel |title=Elia auf dem Sprung zu Feyenoord? |publisher=Kicker |language=de |date=2 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151104132447/http://www.kicker.de/news/fussball/bundesliga/startseite/632136/artikel_elia-auf-dem-sprung-zu-feyenoord.html|archive-date=4 November 2015|url-status=live}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraaf.nl/telesport/voetbal/feyenoord/24341023/__Elia_vandaag_Feyenoorder__.html |title=Elia vandaag Feyenoorder |work=De Telegraaf |language=nl |date=5 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150807182611/http://www.telegraaf.nl/telesport/voetbal/feyenoord/24341023/__Elia_vandaag_Feyenoorder__.html|archive-date=7 August 2015|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/feyenoord-versterkt-zich-met-eljero-elia |title=Feyenoord versterkt zich met Eljero Elia |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=6 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127081319/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/feyenoord-versterkt-zich-met-eljero-elia|archive-date=27 January 2021|url-status=dead}} Upon joining the club, he said: "I do have a click with Rotterdam, the mentality of the people appeals to me. I also have many Rotterdam friends, who are all for Feyenoord. I think that a lot is possible at Feyenoord. The team has a lot of quality, there is a lot of potential. I want to be an example for the young boys, support them and also give extra impulses to the team."{{cite news |title=Elia: "Voorbeeld zijn voor jonge jongens bij Feyenoord" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/281500/elia-voorbeeld-zijn-voor-jonge-jongens-bij-feyenoord/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Elia made his debut for the club, coming on as a 68th-minute substitute, in a 3–1 loss to rivals PSV on 30 August 2015.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord mikt op basisdebuut Elia tegen PSV |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/282246/feyenoord-mikt-op-basisdebuut-elia-tegen-psv/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=18 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=PSV na rust te sterk voor afwachtend Feyenoord |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/283019/psv-na-rust-te-sterk-voor-afwachtend-feyenoord/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=30 August 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia teleurgesteld na debuut voor Feyenoord |language=nl |publisher=NU |url=http://www.nu.nl/voetbal/4116121/elia-teleurgesteld-debuut-feyenoord.html |date=30 August 2015|access-date=7 March 2016}} In a follow–up match, he scored his first goal for Feyenoord, in a 1–0 win against Willem II.{{cite news |title=Invaller Elia schiet Feyenoord langs Willem II |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133215/Invaller-Elia-schiet-Feyenoord-langs-Willem-II |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=13 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then played in Jong Feyenoord against Jong SC Cambuur on 14 September 2015 but he was sent–off in the 36th minute for hitting an opponent, as the Jong side drew 1–1.{{cite news |title=Elia sloeg tegenstander; mogelijk schorsing |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133258/Elia-sloeg-tegenstander-mogelijk-schorsing |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=14 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} After the match, it was announced that KNVB would not take against the player because of "insufficient evidence".{{cite news |title=Slachtoffer vond rood Elia terecht: "Het was een kopstoot" |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/283932/slachtoffer-vond-rood-elia-terecht-het-was-een-kopstoot/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=16 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord niet akkoord met schikkingsvoorstel Elia |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133299/Feyenoord-niet-akkoord-met-schikkingsvoorstel-Elia |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=16 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Benthem: 'Rode kaart voor Elia bestaat niet' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133340/Van-Benthem-Rode-kaart-voor-Elia-bestaat-niet |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=17 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, Elia scored two goals in two matches between 27 September 2015 and 4 October 2015 against PEC Zwolle and De Graafschap respectively.{{cite news |title=Kuyt en Elia bezorgen PEC Zwolle eerste nederlaag |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/284605/kuijt-en-elia-bezorgen-pec-zwolle-eerste-nederlaag/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=27 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Matig Feyenoord wint moeizaam bij hekkensluiter |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133809/Matig-Feyenoord-wint-moeizaam-bij-hekkensluiter |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=4 October 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Since joining the club, he quickly established himself in the first team for the Rotterdam-based outfit, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news |title=Van Bronckhorst: 'kans dat Elia begint is zeker aanwezig, fysiek is hij nu op het vereiste niveau' |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/35460/Van-Bronckhorst-'kans-dat-Elia-begint-is-zeker-aanwezig-fysiek-is-hij-nu-op-het-vereiste-niveau' |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=19 September 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord versus Ajax: wie heeft de beste spelers? |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/286448/feyenoord-versus-ajax-wie-heeft-de-beste-spelers/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 October 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: 'ik moet de ploeg op sleeptouw nemen' |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/36016/Elia-'ik-moet-de-ploeg-op-sleeptouw-nemen' |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=6 December 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: 'Positief blijven en een resultaat boeken' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/137734/Elia-Positief-blijven-en-een-resultaat-boeken |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=29 January 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Bronckhorst: 'spelers helpen elkaar door hard te werken' |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/36539/Van-Bronckhorst-%27spelers-helpen-elkaar-door-hard-te-werken%27 |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=12 February 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 6 March 2016 when Elia scored his fourth goal of the season, in a 3–0 win against Heracles Almelo.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord verslaat Heracles Almelo in bloederig duel |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/288675/feyenoord-verslaat-heracles-almelo-in-bloederig-duel/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 December 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} His fifth goal of the season came on 6 March 2016, in a 3–1 win against SC Cambuur.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord moeizaam langs SC Cambuur |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/139445/Feyenoord-moeizaam-langs-SC-Cambuur |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=6 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Two weeks later on 19 March 2016, he scored his sixth goal of the season, in a 3–1 win against De Graafschap, which was followed up by scoring in a 3–0 win against Excelsior.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord na matig begin langs De Graafschap |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/139948/Feyenoord-na-matig-begin-langs-De-Graafschap |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=19 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord verslaat Excelsior in stadsderby |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/140410/Feyenoord-verslaat-Excelsior-in-stadsderby |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=2 April 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Two weeks later on 20 April 2016, Elia scored his eighth goal of the season, in a 2–2 draw against Heracles Almelo.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord speelt gelijk in Almelo: 2–2 |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/141068/Feyenoord-speelt-gelijk-in-Almelo-2-2 |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=20 April 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Four days later on 24 April 2016, he started in the KNVB Cup Final against FC Utrecht and played a role that led to a winning goal, as Feyenoord won the KNVB Cup, the club's 12th title.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord wint KNVB-beker na winst op FC Utrecht |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/141222/Feyenoord-wint-KNVB-beker-na-winst-op-FC-Utrecht |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=24 April 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Matchwinner Elia: 'Ik ben enorm trots' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/141225/Matchwinner-Elia-Ik-ben-enorm-trots |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=24 April 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then helped Feyenoord finish third place in the league after beating Willem II 1–0 on 1 May 2016.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord stelt derde plaats veilig in Tilburg |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/141422/Feyenoord-stelt-derde-plaats-veilig-in-Tilburg |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=1 May 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite struggling with a groin injuries on two occasions throughout the 2015–16 season, he went on to make thirty–seven appearances and scoring eight times in all competitions.{{cite news |title=Lichte liesklachten voor Elia |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/35559/Lichte-liesklachten-voor-Elia |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=2 October 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Bronckhorst hoopt toch op Elia tegen FC Twente |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/287751/van-bronckhorst-hoopt-toch-op-elia-tegen-fc-twente/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=20 November 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord met Elia, Botteghin en Gustafson tegen Twente |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/287865/feyenoord-met-elia-botteghin-en-gustafson-tegen-twente/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=22 November 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia afwezig, El Ahmadi raakt geblesseerd |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/136758/Elia-afwezig-El-Ahmadi-raakt-geblesseerd |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=4 January 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Ahead of the 2016–17 season, Elia signed a one–year contract extension with Feyenoord, keeping him until 2018.{{cite web |url=http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/5619/Feyenoord/article/detail/4303371/2016/05/18/Feyenoord-paait-Kuyt-met-Elia.dhtml |title=Feyenoord paait Kuyt met Elia |publisher=Algemeen Dagbladet |language=nl |date=18 May 2016|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518221855/http://www.ad.nl/ad/nl/5619/Feyenoord/article/detail/4303371/2016/05/18/Feyenoord-paait-Kuyt-met-Elia.dhtml|archive-date=18 May 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia blijft een jaar langer bij Feyenoord |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/elia-blijft-een-jaar-langer-bij-feyenoord |publisher=Voetbal International |language=nl |date=28 June 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/ook-elia-verlengt-contract-bij-feyenoord |title=OOK ELIA VERLENGT CONTRACT BIJ FEYENOORD |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=28 June 2016|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913215414/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/ook-elia-verlengt-contract-bij-feyenoord|archive-date=13 September 2016|url-status=dead}} He started on the left wing as the team lost 1–0 to PSV in the Johan Cruyff Shield.{{cite news |title=Elia: "Leuke combinaties op PSV-middenveld gezien" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/301625/elia-leuke-combinaties-op-psv-middenveld-gezien/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 July 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Recordhouder PSV voegt weer JC Schaal toe aan collectie |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/301755/recordhouder-psv-voegt-weer-jc-schaal-toe-aan-collectie/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=31 July 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the opening game of the 2016–17 season, Elia scored a hat–trick in a 5–0 win against FC Groningen.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord en Elia overtuigen in Groningen: 0–5 |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/144876/Feyenoord-en-Elia-overtuigen-in-Groningen-0-5 |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=7 August 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia suffered a shoulder injury while training and was out for two months.{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/van-bronckhorst-hoopt-op-elia-tegen-fc-twente |title=Van Bronckhorst hoopt op fitte Elia tegen FC Twente |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=12 August 2016|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201015023808/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/van-bronckhorst-hoopt-op-elia-tegen-fc-twente|archive-date=15 October 2020|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia vier tot zes weken uit roulatie wegens blessure |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/302610/elia-vier-tot-zes-weken-uit-roulatie-wegens-blessure/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=17 August 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/van-bronckhorst-ik-proef-het-vertrouwen-elke-training |title=Van Bronckhorst: 'Ik proef het vertrouwen elke training' |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=19 August 2016|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190530091532/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/van-bronckhorst-ik-proef-het-vertrouwen-elke-training|archive-date=30 May 2019|url-status=dead}} It wasn't until on 23 October 2016 when he returned to the first team, coming on as a 60th-minute substitute against rivals, Ajax and set up the equalising goal, in a 1–1 draw.{{cite news |title=Kuyt bezorgt Feyenoord verdiend punt in Klassieker |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/306188/kuyt-bezorgt-feyenoord-oververdiend-punt-in-klassieker/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=23 October 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Three days later on 26 October 2016, Elia scored his fourth goal of the season, in a 4–0 win against SBV Excelsior in the second round of the KNVB Cup.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord bekert door na ruime zege op Excelsior |url=http://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/147878/Feyenoord-bekert-door-na-ruime-zege-op-Excelsior |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=26 October 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Since returning from injury, he regained his first team place, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news |title=Elia, Tapia en Vejinovic in de basis tegen Zorya |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/306782/elia-tapia-en-vejinovic-in-de-basis-tegen-zorya/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=3 November 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Vermoedelijke opstelling Feyenoord: Nelom en Elia op de linkerflank? |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/38867/Vermoedelijke-opstelling-Feyenoord-Nelom-en-Elia-op-de-linkerflank |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=19 November 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia wil per se winnen: "Geen zin dat mensen mij gaan pesten" |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/308940/elia-wil-per-se-winnen-geen-zin-dat-mensen-mij-gaan-pesten/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=13 December 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Toornsta vult leemte en spreekt van 'beste half jaar' |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/310131/toornsta-vult-leemte-en-spreekt-van-beste-half-jaar/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=9 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia content: "Weinig wedstrijden gespeeld, hoog rendement" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/314398/elia-content-weinig-wedstrijden-gespeeld-hoog-rendement/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=8 April 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then scored his fifth goal of the season, in a 6–1 win against Sparta Rotterdam on 4 December 2016.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord met speels gemak langs Sparta: 6–1 |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/149320/Feyenoord-met-speels-gemak-langs-Sparta-6-1 |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=4 December 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, he played a key role for Feyenoord by assisting five times and scoring three times, coming against Vitesse, Roda JC and NEC Nijmegen, all of them were wins to help the club maintain their place at the top of the table.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord maakt indruk met galavoorstelling in Alkmaar |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/308810/feyenoord-maakt-indruk-met-galavoorstelling-in-alkmaar/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=11 December 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord winterkampioen na zege op Vitesse |url=http://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/149860/Feyenoord-winterkampioen-na-zege-op-Vitesse |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=17 December 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord maakt geen fout bij Roda JC |url=http://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/150675/Feyenoord-maakt-geen-fout-bij-Roda-JC |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=15 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord nipt langs Willem II: 1–0 |url=http://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/150910/Feyenoord-nipt-langs-Willem-II-1-0 |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=21 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/feyenoord-met-effectieve-elia-sterk-van-start-in-2017 |title=Feyenoord met effectieve Elia sterk van start in 2017 |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=29 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125165055/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/feyenoord-met-effectieve-elia-sterk-van-start-in-2017|archive-date=25 January 2021|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord bewaart geduld en boekt belangrijke zege bij Twente |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/311518/feyenoord-bewaart-geduld-en-boekt-belangrijke-zege-bij-twente/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} During which, Elia suffered a hamstring injury while training but he quickly recovered.{{cite news |title=El Ahmadi en Elia ontbreken op training Feyenoord |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/311328/el-ahmadi-en-elia-ontbreken-op-training-feyenoord/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=1 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Gio: "Ik ben opgelucht dat El Ahmadi er weer bij is" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/311415/gio-ik-ben-opgelucht-dat-el-ahmadi-er-weer-bij-is/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=3 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=El Ahmadi begint bij Feyenoord ten koste van Toornstra |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/311509/el-ahmadi-begint-bij-feyenoord-ten-koste-van-toornstra/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} After suffering minor injuries, Elia suffered a foot injury that saw him miss two matches.{{cite news |title=Van Bronckhorst haalt Vente bij de selectie (beelden) |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/151741/Van-Bronckhorst-haalt-Vente-bij-de-selectie-beelden |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=14 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/elia-twijfelgeval-voor-stadsderby |title=Elia twijfelgeval voor stadsderby |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=3 March 2017|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190530174754/https://www.feyenoord.nl/nieuws/nieuwsoverzicht/elia-twijfelgeval-voor-stadsderby|archive-date=30 May 2019|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord zonder Elia naar Friesland |url=http://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/152942/Feyenoord-zonder-Elia-naar-Friesland |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=17 March 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 5 April 2017 when he made his return to the first team from injury and scored his ninth goal of the season, in an 8–0 win against Go Ahead Eagles to bounce back from the previous defeat against Ajax.{{cite news |title=Elia kan spelen in Klassieker, Dolberg nog twijfelgeval |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/314009/elia-kan-weer-spelen-in-klassieker-ziet-er-goed-uit/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=31 March 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/feyenoord-1/uitslagen/feyenoord-go-ahead-eagles-netherlands-eredivisie-2016-2017/verslag |title=FEYENOORD REVANCHEERT ZICH MET ACHTKLAPPER IN KOLKENDE KUIP |publisher=Feyenoord |language=nl |date=4 April 2017|access-date=18 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527115347/https://www.feyenoord.nl/feyenoord-1/uitslagen/feyenoord-go-ahead-eagles-netherlands-eredivisie-2016-2017/verslag|archive-date=27 May 2017|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: "Het voelde heerlijk om weer op het veld te staan" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/314300/elia-het-voelde-heerlijk-om-weer-op-het-veld-te-staan/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 April 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, it was revealed that Elia had his knee injected in effort to avoid having further injury.{{cite news |title=Elia gaat met injectie in enkel door tot hij erbij neervalt |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/314478/elia-gaat-met-injectie-in-enkel-door-tot-hij-erbij-neervalt/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=9 April 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Two weeks later on 16 April 2017, he scored his tenth goal of the season, in a 2–0 win against Utrecht to help the club maintain their lead at the top of the table.{{cite web |url=https://www.feyenoord.nl/feyenoord-1/uitslagen/feyenoord-fc-utrecht-netherlands-eredivisie-2016-2017/verslag |title=Feyenoord blijft koploper dankzij tiende thuiszege op rij |publisher=Feyenoord |language=Dutch |date=16 April 2017|access-date=20 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170520124957/https://www.feyenoord.nl/feyenoord-1/uitslagen/feyenoord-fc-utrecht-netherlands-eredivisie-2016-2017/verslag|archive-date=20 May 2017|url-status=live}} In the last game of the season against Heracles Almelo, Elia played a role in the match when he set up a goal for Dirk Kuyt, who went on to score a hat–trick, in a 3–1 win, a result that saw Feyenoord win the Eredivisie title of 2016–17 season.{{cite web |url=http://www.eurosport.com/football/eljero-elia_prs206890/person.shtml |title=Eljero Elia |website=Eurosport.com|access-date=19 July 2017}}{{cite news |title=Feyenoord kampioen van Nederland |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/154959/Feyenoord-kampioen-van-Nederland |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=14 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=FEYENOORD EINDELIJK WEER KAMPIOEN VAN NEDERLAND |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/316133/feyenoord-voor-het-eerst-sinds-1999-weer-kampioen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=14 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} At the end of the 2016–17 season, Elia went on to make thirty–one appearances and scoring ten times in all competitions.

Following this, Elia announced his intention of leaving Feyenoord, citing to play abroad.{{cite web |url=http://www.ad.nl/dossier-feyenoord-landskampioen/elia-zinspeelt-op-vertrek-club-gunt-mij-mooie-stap~ae67465b/ |title=Elia kondigt vertrek bij Feyenoord aan |work=Algemeen Dagblad |language=nl |date=14 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517045240/http://www.ad.nl/dossier-feyenoord-landskampioen/elia-zinspeelt-op-vertrek-club-gunt-mij-mooie-stap~ae67465b/|archive-date=17 May 2017|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia vertrekt, Berghuis wil blijven |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/154977/Elia-vertrekt-Berghuis-wil-blijven |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=14 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: 'Er zijn zoveel clubs die zich hebben gemeld' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/155341/Elia-Er-zijn-zoveel-clubs-die-zich-hebben-gemeld |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=24 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} He was linked with a move to Fenerbahçe and İstanbul Başakşehir.{{cite news |title=Gouka in FC Rijnmond: 'Vervanger Elia halen is lastig' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/155197/Gouka-in-FC-Rijnmond-Vervanger-Elia-halen-is-lastig |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=19 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ook Fenerbahçe heeft zinnen gezet op komst Elia |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/316837/ook-fenerbahce-heeft-zinnen-gezet-op-komst-elia/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraaf.nl/telesport/28257461/__Elia_kan_ook_naar__Fener___.html |title=Elia kan ook naar 'Fener' |work=De Telegraaf |language=nl |date=29 May 2017|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530041142/http://www.telegraaf.nl/telesport/28257461/__Elia_kan_ook_naar__Fener___.html|archive-date=30 May 2017|url-status=dead}} During his time at Feyenoord, Elia was among a fan favourite among the club's supporters, who chanted 'Oe-Ah-Elia'.{{cite news |title=Elia: 'Ik blijf altijd mijn acties maken' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/151615/Elia-Ik-blijf-altijd-mijn-acties-maken |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=10 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}

=İstanbul Başakşehir =

On 13 June 2017, Elia joined Turkish side İstanbul Başakşehir on a three-year contract.{{cite web |title=Welcome Elia |url=http://www.ibfk.com.tr/hos-geldin-elia/ |publisher=İstanbul Başakşehir F.K.|access-date=18 June 2017 |language=tr |date=18 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170613201653/http://www.ibfk.com.tr/hos-geldin-elia/|archive-date=13 June 2017|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia 3 yıllığına Başakşehir'de! |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/eljero-elia-3-yilligina-basaksehirde-2467716 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=13 June 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: Keuze voor Basaksehir ingegeven door gezin |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/156540/Elia-Keuze-voor-Basaksehir-ingegeven-door-gezin |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=28 June 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}

He made his debut for the club on 26 July 2017 in a 3–3 away draw against Club Brugge in the first leg of the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League, immediately scoring his first goal in the 62nd minute of the match.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir avantajı kaptı.. |url=http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/medipol-basaksehir-avantaji-kapti-40532115 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=26 July 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the return leg, Elia started in the match and helped İstanbul Başakşehir win 2–0 to advance to the next round.{{cite news |title=İstanbul Başakşehir 2–0 Club Brugge |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehir-2-0-club-brugge-40538286 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=2 August 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} His first appearance in the Süper Lig came on 11 August 2017 in a 1–0 home win over Bursaspor, where he scored the only goal of the match.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir-Bursaspor: 1–0 |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2017/08/11/canli-anlatim-medipol-basaksehir-bursaspor-651034/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=11 August 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia scored in both legs of the UEFA Champions League's play–offs round against Sevilla, as the club were eliminated following a 4–3 loss on aggregate.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir – Sevilla maç sonucu: 1–2 (İşte maçın özeti) |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/medipol-basaksehir-sevilla-mac-sonucu-1-2-iste-macin-ozeti-2502944 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=16 August 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Sevilla Başakşehir maç özeti: Umutlu başladı buruk bitti! (GENİŞ ÖZET) |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2017/08/23/sevilla-basaksehir-mac-ozeti-umutlu-basladi-buruk-bitti-genis-ozet-654244/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=23 August 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Since joining İstanbul Başakşehir, he quickly established himself in the first team, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news |title=Abdullah Avcı: "Türk futbolu adına önemli" |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/abdullah-avci-turk-futbolu-adina-onemli-2494802 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=1 August 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Abdullah Avcı: "Önemli olan maç kazanmak" |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/abdullah-avci-onemli-olan-mac-kazanmak-40572317 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=7 September 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Maç özeti: Başakşehir Galatasaray: 5–1 |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2017/11/19/medipol-basaksehir-galatasaray-5-1-mac-ozeti-izle-675494/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=19 November 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia suffered a shoulder injury and had an operation that saw him out for two months.{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'de Elia ameliyat olacak |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehirde-elia-ameliyat-olacak-40658809 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=26 November 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir liderlik için sahada |url=http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/medipol-basaksehir-liderlik-icin-sahada-40723935 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=28 January 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir'de Elia takımla çalıştı! |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/medipol-basaksehirde-elia-takimla-calisti-40734273 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=7 February 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 18 February 2018 when he made his return from injury, coming on as a 74th-minute substitute, in a 1–0 win against Trabzonspor.{{cite news |title=Trabzonspor 0–1 Medipol Başakşehir (Maç sonucu) |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2018/02/18/canli-trabzonspor-medipol-basaksehir-ilk-11ler-belli-oldu-695606/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=18 February 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then scored three goals in three matches between 18 March 2018 and 6 April 2018 against Beşiktaş, Alanyaspor and Yeni Malatyaspor.{{cite news |title=Avcı'nın hücumcuları! |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/avci-nin-hucumculari-2620092 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=3 March 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir 1–0 Beşiktaş (İşte maçın özeti) |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/medipol-basaksehir-1-0-besiktas-iste-macin-ozeti-2629723 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=18 March 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: Galatasaray bizi en çok zorlayacak takım |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/elia-galatasaray-bizi-en-cok-zorlayacak-takim-2634729 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=26 March 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir küllerinden doğdu |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehir-kullerinden-dogdu-40791170 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=1 April 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Visca asistlerine devam ediyor |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/visca-asistlerine-devam-ediyor-2642721 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=6 April 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} Two weeks later on 20 April 2018, he scored his eighth goal of the season, in a 3–1 win against Kayserispor.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir – Kayserispor: 3–1 |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/medipol-basaksehir-kayserispor-3-1-2652079 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=20 April 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia followed up by assisting three times in the next three matches.{{cite news |title=MAÇ SONUCU: Osmanlıspor Medipol Başakşehir 1–4 |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2018/04/29/canli-osmanlispor-medipol-basaksehir-721949/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=29 April 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'e son dakika şoku |url=https://www.trtspor.com.tr/haber/futbol/spor-toto-super-lig/medipol-basaksehirin-konugu-sivasspor-160031.html |publisher=TRT Spor |language=tr |date=4 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir liderin peşini bırakmıyor |url=http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehir-liderin-pesini-birakmiyor-40833543 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=11 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia durmuyor |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/eljero-elia-durmuyor-2667195 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=12 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} Having helped the club finish third place in the league, he went on to make thirty–two appearances and scoring eight times in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2018–19 season, Elia was linked a move away from with İstanbul Başakşehir, with European clubs were interested in signing him, but he ended up staying at the club.{{cite news |title=Başakşehirli Eljero Elia için sürpriz talip |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/basaksehirli-eljero-elia-icin-surpriz-talip-2659866 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=1 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia'ya talip çıktı |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/eljero-eliaya-talip-cikti-2660385 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=2 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'in yıldızı Eljero Elia'dan Fenerbahçe itirafı! |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2018/01/06/basaksehirin-yildizi-eljero-eliadan-fenerbahce-itirafi-685923/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=nl |date=1 June 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia kan rekenen op belangstelling van Italiaanse clubs |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/333793/elia-kan-rekenen-op-belangstelling-van-italiaanse-clubs/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 June 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he found himself plagued with injuries and affected his playing time for the 2018–19 season.{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'in rakibi Kasımpaşa |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/basaksehirin-rakibi-kasimpasa-2727590 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=19 August 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Abdullah Avcı: "Liderliği devam ettirmek istiyoruz" |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/abdullah-avci-liderligi-devam-ettirmek-istiyoruz-2750009 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=27 September 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir'de Atiker Konyaspor maçı hazırlıkları |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/medipol-basaksehirde-atiker-konyaspor-hazirliklari-40995859 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=23 October 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir 3 eksikle çalıştı |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/medipol-basaksehir-3-eksikle-calisti-2773212 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=6 November 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir, Ankaragücü'nü konuk ediyor! Takımda 4 eksik... |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehir-ankaragucunu-konuk-ediyor-takimda-4-eksik-41210370 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=11 May 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite this, Elia scored his only goal of the season, in a 1–1 draw against Kasımpaşa on 28 January 2019.{{cite news |title=MAÇ SONUCU: Başakşehir 2–0 Kasımpaşa |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2019/01/28/basaksehir-kasimpasa-maci-canli-yayin-11ler-belli-oldu-917585/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=28 January 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} Despite aiming to help İstanbul Başakşehir win the league for the first time, the club ended up finishing second place after surrendering their title chances to Galatasaray, in a 2–1 loss on 19 May 2019.{{cite news |title=Elia wil landstitel in Turkije en dan terug naar Feyenoord |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/341551/elia-wil-landstitel-in-turkije-en-dan-terug-naar-feyenoord/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=14 November 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia: 'Artık şampiyonluk istiyorum' |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2019/04/07/eljero-elia-artik-sampiyonluk-istiyorum-1139872/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=7 April 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Yeni madalya zamanı |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/yeni-madalya-zamani-2860836 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=19 April 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'de 4 eksik! |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/basaksehirde-4-eksik-2872163 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=11 May 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Galatasaray, Başakşehir'i yendi, 22. şampiyonluğunu ilan etti! |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/galatasaray-basaksehiri-yendi-22-sampiyonlugunu-ilan-etti-2876340 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=19 May 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} At the end of the 2018–19 season, he went on to make twenty–four appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2019–20 season, Elia was linked with a move to Beşiktaş, but he ended up staying at İstanbul Başakşehir.{{cite news |title=Beşiktaş için transferde Eljero Elia iddiası |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/besiktas-icin-transferde-eljero-elia-iddiasi-2884611 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=4 June 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia spreekt openlijk zijn twijfels uit over toekomst in Turkije |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/353120/elia-spreekt-openlijk-zijn-twijfels-uit-over-toekomst-in-turkije/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=15 July 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehirli Eljero Elia'dan Beşiktaş itirafı! |url=https://skor.sozcu.com.tr/2020/05/07/basaksehirli-eljero-eliadan-besiktas-itirafi-1483188/ |publisher=Sozcu |language=tr |date=7 May 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia suffered an injury in the 23rd minute against Fenerbahçe on 24 August 2019, as the club lost 2–0; which subsequently saw the player missed two matches.{{cite news |title=Başakşehir – Fenerbahçe: 1–2 |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/basaksehir-fenerbahce-canli-6021652 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=24 August 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Gençlerbirliği, Başakşehir'i konuk edecek! Puansız iki takım... |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/genclerbirligi-basaksehiri-konuk-edecek-puansiz-iki-takim-41317390 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=31 August 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} But he made his return from injury, coming on as a 70th-minute substitute and setting up the fourth goal of the game, in a 5–0 win against Çaykur Rizespor on 27 September 2019.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir, Çaykur Rizespor'u dağıttı |url=https://www.trtspor.com.tr/haber/futbol/super-lig/medipol-basaksehirin-konugu-caykur-rizespor-192629.html |publisher=TRT Spor |language=tr |date=27 September 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then scored his first goal of the season, in a 5–1 win against Kasımpaşa on 28 December 2019.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir – Kasımpaşa: 5–1 |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/medipol-basaksehir-kasimpasa-5-1-6110930 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=28 December 2019|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following his return from injury, he continued to remain involved in the first team and this lasted until the season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic that pushed the season to June; the player made twenty–four appearances and scoring once so far.{{cite news |title=Elia ontbreekt bij Istanbul Basaksehir: "Politiek spelletje" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/364942/elia-ontbreekt-bij-istanbul-basaksehir-politiek-spelletje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=12 March 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Süper Lig maçları seyircisiz mi oynanacak? Resmi açıklama geldi |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/resmi-aciklama-geldi-turkiyede-nisan-sonuna-kadar-tum-spor-musabakalari-seyircisiz-oynanacak-41467734 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=12 March 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Süper Lig'in salgın arası bitiyor |url=https://www.dw.com/tr/s%C3%BCper-ligin-salg%C4%B1n-aras%C4%B1-bitiyor/a-53776650 |publisher=Deutsche Welle |language=tr |date=12 June 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} Once the season resumed behind closed doors, Elia scored on his first appearances for İstanbul Başakşehir in three months, at the last minutes of the game, in a 2–0 win against Antalyaspor on 4 July 2020.{{cite news |title=Antalyaspor–Başakşehir: 0–2 |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/antalyaspor-basaksehir-0-2-6251522 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=4 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} A week later on 13 July 2020, he scored his third goal of the season, in a 4–3 loss against Konyaspor.{{cite news |title=Konyaspor – Başakşehir: 4–3 |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/konyaspor-basaksehir-4-3-6258565 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=13 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} In a follow–up match against Kayserispor, Elia helped the club win 1–0 to help İstanbul Başakşehir win the Süper Lig for the first time, a target he finally achieved.{{cite news |title=Medipol Başakşehir altıncı farklı şampiyon olabilir! |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/medipol-basaksehir-altinci-farkli-sampiyon-olabilir-41562830 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=12 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehir 1–0 Kayserispor (Süper Lig'de şampiyon Başakşehir) |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/son-dakika-super-ligde-sampiyon-basaksehir-41567988 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=19 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Başakşehirli Elia'dan futbol tarihine geçecek hareket |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/basaksehirli-eliadan-futbol-tarihine-gececek-hareket-6264522 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=21 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} At the end of the 2019–20 season, Elia went on to make thirty appearances and scoring three times in all competitions.

It was announced on 20 March 2020 that Elia would be leaving İstanbul Başakşehir at the end of the 2019–20 season.{{cite news |title=Başakşehir'de sürpriz ayrılık! Eljero Elia açıkladı... |url=https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/sporarena/basaksehirde-surpriz-ayrilik-eljero-elia-acikladi-41475378 |work=Hürriyet Daily News |language=tr |date=20 March 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}{{cite news |title=Son dakika haberler – Eljero Elia, Başakşehir'den ayrılacağını resmen açıkladı! |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/son-dakika-haberler-eljero-elia-basaksehirden-ayrilacagini-resmen-acikladi-6262736 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=19 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} His contract with the club expired after the season was confirmed on 19 August 2020, making him a free agent.{{cite web |title=Elia maakt zijn woorden waar bij Basaksehir |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/elia-maakt-zijn-woorden-waar-bij-basaksehir |publisher=Voetbal International|access-date=2 October 2020 |language=nl |date=5 July 2020}}
{{cite web |url=https://ibfk.com.tr/haberler/tesekkurler-eljero-elia |title=TEŞEKKÜRLER ELJERO ELIA |publisher=İstanbul Başakşehir F.K. |language=tr |date=19 August 2020|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616205802/https://ibfk.com.tr/haberler/tesekkurler-eljero-elia|archive-date=16 June 2021|url-status=dead}}

=FC Utrecht=

On 19 August 2020, Elia signed a two-year contract with Utrecht, after coming over from İstanbul Başakşehir on a free transfer.{{cite web |last1=Reedijk |first1=Tim |title=Eljero Elia tekent voor twee seizoenen bij FC Utrecht |url=https://www.ad.nl/transfer-talk/eljero-elia-tekent-voor-twee-seizoenen-bij-fc-utrecht~a62dc37e/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad|access-date=2 October 2020 |language=nl |date=19 August 2020}} He was previously linked with a move to clubs in Italy and Argentina before deciding to return to his homeland.{{cite news |title=Elia'dan transfer itirafı! Başakşehir... |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/eliadan-transfer-itirafi-basaksehir-6155473 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=29 February 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia: Sampdoria ve Fiorentina ile anlaştım ancak… |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/eljero-elia-sampdoria-ve-fiorentina-ile-anlastim-ancak-6259805 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=15 July 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Son dakika transfer haberi – Göztepe, Elia'nın peşinde |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/son-dakika-transfer-haberi-goztepe-elianin-pesinde-6278177 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=9 August 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} Upon joining the club, Elia said: "It is really a lie, Utrecht has already gone very far for me. I received a very nice proposal and I am very happy with it. I wanted to return to the Netherlands and they have a very nice plan, express ambition. That fits with me. Every player wants to play at such a club. You can also see that in the transfers. Utrecht is continuously improving itself."{{cite news |title=Elia ontkent tekengeld bij Utrecht: "Het is echt een leugen" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/372610/elia-ontkent-tekengeld-bij-utrecht-het-is-echt-een-leugen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=18 September 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Elia made his first appearance for FC Utrecht, coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute, in a 1–1 away draw in the Eredivisie against VVV-Venlo on 18 September 2020.{{cite web |title='Beetje boze' Elia doet belofte na teleurstellend begin FC Utrecht |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/beetje-boze-elia-doet-belofte-na-teleurstellend-begin-fc-utrecht |website=vi.nl |publisher=Voetbal International|access-date=2 October 2020 |language=nl |date=18 September 2020}} Since joining FC Utrecht, Elia found himself in and out of the starting line–up, as he maintain his fitness to earn a place.{{cite news |title=Van den Brom laat Sylla en Nijhuis debuteren tegen FC Groningen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/373950/van-den-brom-laat-sylla-en-nijhuis-debuteren-tegen-fc-groningen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=16 October 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van der Brom hoopt op oude Elia: "Moeten geduld hebben" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/374295/van-der-brom-hoopt-op-oude-elia-moeten-geduld-hebben/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=23 October 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia over speeltijd: "Natuurlijk, ik kan allang in basis spelen" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/374530/elia-over-speeltijd-natuurlijk-ik-kan-allang-in-de-basis-spelen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 October 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia krijgt eerste Eredivisie-basisplek bij FC Utrecht |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/374720/elia-krijgt-eerste-basisplaats-bij-fc-utrecht/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=1 November 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Hake niet tevreden met punt: 'We drukken niet door' |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/nieuws/2112688/hake-niet-tevreden-met-punt-we-drukken-niet-door.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=21 November 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, Elia received criticism for not living up to expectation since joining the club.{{cite news |title=Elia ergerde zich aan kritiek: "Er is heel wat gebeurd" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/374652/elia-ergert-zich-aan-kritiek-er-is-heel-wat-gebeurd/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=30 October 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Een Berg Sport: Van de Haar en Kruys breken lans voor Elia |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/nieuws/2116066/een-berg-sport-van-de-haar-en-kruys-breken-lans-voor-elia.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=27 November 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Hake: "Leek alsof magneetjes in handschoenen Marsman zaten" |url=http://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/376207/hake-leek-alsof-magneetjes-in-handschoenen-marsman-zaten/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 November 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia maakt zijn reputatie niet waar, Promes valt in ravijn |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/377599/elia-maakt-zijn-reputatie-niet-waar-promes-valt-in-een-ravijn/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=26 December 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=FC Utrecht mist St. Jago tegen FC Groningen |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/nieuws/2123844/fc-utrecht-mist-st-jago-tegen-fc-groningen.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=8 January 2021|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 22 December 2020 when he scored his first goal for Utrecht in the away match against Emmen, as the club won 3–2.{{cite news |title=Emmen verliest ook van Utrecht, Hake pakt eerste driepunter |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/377443/emmen-verliest-ook-van-utrecht-hake-pakt-eerste-driepunter/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=22 December 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the next league game on 27 December 2020, Elia again scored the opening goal, this time against AZ.{{cite news |title=Elia wil meer na tweede succes op rij |url=https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/elia-wil-meer-na-tweede-succes-op-rij |access-date=2 February 2021 |work=Voetbal International |date=27 December 2020 |language=nl}} On 11 January 2021, the club announced that Elia had suffered a hamstring injury and as a result would be sidelined the following weeks.{{cite news |title=Hamstringblessure houdt Elia komende weken aan de kant |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/378382/hamstringblessure-houdt-elia-komende-weken-aan-de-kant/|access-date=2 February 2021 |work=FCUpdate.nl |publisher=SportUpdate B.V. |date=11 January 2021 |location=Groningen |language=nl}} Eventually, his return was delayed up to April despite returning to training months earlier.{{cite news |title=Hake laat de elf van Willem II-uit staan tegen Emmen |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/nieuws/2142095/hake-laat-de-elf-van-willem-iiuit-staan-tegen-emmen.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=26 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=René Hake benadrukt contrast bij FC Utrecht -Vitesse: 'Zij zijn meedogenlozer' |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/sport/2147103/rene-hake-benadrukt-contrast-bij-fc-utrecht-vitesse-zij-zijn-meedogenlozer.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=14 March 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia hoopt op minuten tegen oude club Feyenoord: 'Pissed off dat ik tegen ADO niet inviel' |url=https://www.rtvutrecht.nl/nieuws/2160341/eljero-elia-hoopt-op-minuten-tegen-oude-club-feyenoord-pissed-off-dat-ik-tegen-ado-niet-inviel.html |publisher=RTV Utrecht |language=nl |date=9 April 2021|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 11 April 2021 when he made his return to the starting line–up against Feyenoord, coming on as a 76th-minute substitute, in a 2–1 loss.{{cite news |title=Elia op twee goals en nul assists: "Het is geen verloren seizoen" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/382941/elia-op-twee-goals-en-nul-assists-het-is-geen-verloren-seizoen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=11 April 2021|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.fcutrecht.nl/nieuws/2021/april/fc-utrecht-verliest-van-feyenoord/ |title=FC UTRECHT VERLIEST VAN FEYENOORD |publisher=FC Utrecht |language=nl |date=11 April 2021|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618164740/https://www.fcutrecht.nl/nieuws/2021/april/fc-utrecht-verliest-van-feyenoord/|archive-date=18 June 2021|url-status=live}} Following this, Elia soon had a first run ins for FC Utrecht's remaining matches of the 2020–21 season.{{cite news |title=Elia wil in competitieslot belangrijk zijn voor Utrecht |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/383494/elia-wil-in-competitieslot-belangrijk-zijn-voor-utrecht/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=22 April 2021|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |url=https://www.fcutrecht.nl/nieuws/2021/april/de-volle-mep-in-de-grolsch-veste/ |title=DE VOLLE MEP IN DE GROLSCH VESTE |publisher=FC Utrecht |language=nl |date=25 April 2021|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428211027/https://www.fcutrecht.nl/nieuws/2021/april/de-volle-mep-in-de-grolsch-veste/|archive-date=28 April 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite news |title=Elia openhartig: "Zwaarste periode in mijn hele carrière" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/384194/elia-openhartig-zwaarste-periode-in-mijn-hele-carriere/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 May 2021|access-date=18 June 2021}} At the end of the 2020–21 season, he went on to make twenty–three appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.

On 30 July 2021, ahead of the 2021–22 season, Elia's contract was terminated by mutual agreement, making him a free agent.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia en FC Utrecht nemen per direct afscheid van elkaar |url=https://www.ad.nl/nederlands-voetbal/eljero-elia-en-fc-utrecht-nemen-per-direct-afscheid-van-elkaar~aed4ec11/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad |date=30 July 2021 |language=nl}}

=Return to ADO Den Haag=

Elia began practicing with his former club ADO Den Haag during the autumn of 2021, who were competing in the second-tier Eerste Divisie.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia traint weer mee met ADO Den Haag: In deze fase wil ik de club helpen waar mogelijk |url=https://www.ad.nl/nederlands-voetbal/eljero-elia-traint-weer-mee-met-ado-den-haag-in-deze-fase-wil-ik-de-club-helpen-waar-mogelijk~a0d38bda/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad |date=21 September 2021 |language=nl}} On 18 November 2021, he signed a contract with the club until the end of the season.{{cite news |last1=Zaat |first1=Youri |title=Eljero Elia tekent contract bij oude liefde ADO Den Haag: Hopelijk snel in vol stadion |url=https://www.ad.nl/nederlands-voetbal/eljero-elia-tekent-contract-bij-oude-liefde-ado-den-haag-hopelijk-snel-in-vol-stadion~af79cb90/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad |date=18 November 2021 |language=nl}} In late January 2022, he suffered a ligament tear in his ankle that required surgery and prevented him from playing for the rest of the season.{{cite web|publisher=ADO Den Haag|url=https://adodenhaag.nl/nl/nieuws/laatste-nieuws/1e-elftal/10006-eljero-elia-langdurig-uitgeschakeld|title=ELJERO ELIA LANGDURIG UITGESCHAKELD|date=2 February 2022|access-date=21 July 2022|language=nl}} Elia officially announced his retirement from playing in late 2022.{{cite web|publisher=Rijnmond|url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/1620252/nooit-meer-oe-ah-elia-gestopte-feyenoord-kampioen-ziet-zichzelf-als-ideale-assistent-en-zeker-niet-als-hoofdtrainer|title=Nooit meer 'Oe Ah Elia': Gestopte Feyenoord-kampioen ziet zichzelf als ideale assistent en zeker niet als hoofdtrainer|trans-title=Never again 'Oe Ah Elia': Retired Feyenoord champion sees himself as the ideal assistant and certainly not as a head coach|date=28 February 2023|access-date=3 March 2023|language=nl}}

International career

=Youth career=

In March 2005, Elia was called up to the Netherlands national under-19 team, making his debut for the U19 national team, starting the whole game, in a 2–2 draw against Austria U19.{{cite news |title=Oostenrijk O19 2–2 Nederland O19 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8322/wedstrijd/3134 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=23 March 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} He scored his first goals for the Netherlands U19, in a 2–0 win against Czech Republic U19 on 14 May 2005.{{cite news |title=Tsjechië O19 0–2 Nederland O19 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8322/wedstrijd/3122 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=14 May 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia then scored his third goal for the U19 national team, in a 1–0 win against Iceland U19 on 2 September 2005.{{cite news |title=Nederland O19 1–0 IJsland O19 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8320/wedstrijd/3110 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=2 September 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} A month later on 19 October 2005, he scored twice for Netherlands U19, in a 2–2 draw against Germany U19.{{cite news |title=Duitsland O19 2–2 Nederland O19 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8320/wedstrijd/3098 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=19 October 2005|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia went on to make ten appearances and scoring six times for the U19 national team.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia " Internationals |url=https://www.worldfootball.net/player_summary/eljero-elia/4/ |publisher=World Football|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Elia developed rapidly and at the beginning of 2006, he was selected for Netherlands U21 the first time.{{cite news |title=Hofs en Vlaar in voorlopige selectie Jong Oranje |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/10927/Hofs-en-Vlaar-in-voorlopige-selectie-Jong-Oranje |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=4 May 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Vlaar en Vincken in Jong Oranje |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/11402/Vlaar-en-Vincken-in-Jong-Oranje |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=11 August 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia made his debut for the U21 national team, coming on as a 69th-minute substitute and scored from a penalty, in a 2–2 draw against Germany U21 on 15 August 2006.{{cite news |title=Jong Duitsland nekt Jong Oranje in blessuretijd |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/40651/jong-duitsland-nekt-jong-oranje-in-blessuretijd/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=15 August 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} He later made two more appearances for Netherlands U21 by the end of the year.{{cite news |title=Jong Oranje 1–2 Jong Denemarken |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8120/wedstrijd/7422 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=10 October 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Jong Oranje 0–1 Jong Engeland |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8120/wedstrijd/7418 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=14 November 2006|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 10 August 2007 when Elia was called up to the U21 national team and made an appearance, coming on as a 67th-minute substitute, in a 1–0 win against Macedonia U21 twelve days later.{{cite news |title=Veel nieuwe namen in selectie Jong Oranje |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/73676/veel-nieuwe-namen-in-selectie-jong-oranje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=10 August 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Jong Macedonië 0–1 Jong Oranje |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/toernooien/8118/wedstrijd/2714 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=22 August 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} He went on to make seven appearances and scoring two times for Netherlands U21.{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA – Jeugd mannen beloftenelftal |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/teams/206598/speler/6650 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl|access-date=18 June 2021}}

On 7 February 2007, Elia made his debut for Netherlands U20, coming on as a second half substitute, in a 3–1 loss against Denmark U20.{{cite news |title=Jong Nederlands 1–3 Jong Denemarken |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/teams/206598/uitslagen/wedstrijd/15830 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=7 February 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} A month later on 23 March 2007, he scored his first goals for the U20 national team, in a 3–2 win against Ukraine U20.{{cite news |title=Jong Nederlands 2–0 Jong Oekraïne |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/teams/206598/uitslagen/wedstrijd/15826 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=23 March 2007|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia went on to make five appearances and scoring two times for Netherlands U20. Later in the year, he made one appearances for Netherlands B|, coming against Sweden U21 on 19 November 2008, losing 3–0.{{cite news |title=Drenthe, Hofland en Loovens in selectie Oranje B |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/107734/drenthe-hofland-en-loovens-in-selectie-oranje-b/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=10 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Nederland B krijgt klop van Jong Zweden |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/108340/nederland-b-krijgt-klop-van-jong-zweden/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=19 November 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}}

=Senior career=

File:Eljero Elia Oranje (cropped).jpg following the end of the 2010 FIFA World Cup]]

In May 2009, Elia was included in the Netherlands' senior squad for the friendly matches against Iceland and Norway by coach Bert van Marwijk.{{cite news |title=Elia opgenomen in voorlopige selectie Oranje |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/120867/elia-opgenomen-in-voorlopige-selectie-oranje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=22 May 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he was dropped from the squad.{{cite news |title=Huntelaar op de bank, Van der Vaart in basis Oranje |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/121842/huntelaar-op-de-bank-van-der-vaart-in-basis-oranje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=6 June 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Once again, Elia was selected for the senior team's friendly with England.{{cite web|access-date=16 April 2011 |date=29 July 2009 |url=http://goal.com/en/news/462/netherlands/2009/07/29/1411015/bert-van-marwijk-announces-holland-squad-for-england |title=Bert van Marwijk announces Holland squad for England |publisher=Goal.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://goal.com/en/news/462/netherlands/2009/07/29/1411015/bert-van-marwijk-announces-holland-squad-for-england|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Timmer niet in voorlopige selectie van Oranje |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/125113/timmer-niet-in-voorlopige-selectie-van-oranje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 July 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} However, he was dropped from the squad once again.{{cite news |title=Elia, Engelaar en Velthuizen vallen af bij Oranje |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/125780/elia-engelaar-en-velthuizen-vallen-af-bij-oranje/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=7 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}

On 6 September 2009, Elia made his debut for the Netherlands against Japan in a friendly match, coming on at half-time to replace Arjen Robben, and went on to set up two goals in a 3–0 win.{{cite news |title=VAN MARWIJK ROEPT ELIA EN LOOVENS OP |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/3330/van-marwijk-roept-elia-en-loovens-op |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=28 August 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2009-09-05-2885886170_x.htm |title=Netherlands beat Japan 3–0 in friendly |newspaper=USA Today |date=5 September 2009|access-date= 16 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908111613/https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2009-09-05-2885886170_x.htm|archive-date=8 September 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web |url=http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/169686/Geflatteerde-30-zege-van-Oranje-op-Japan.htm |title=Geflatteerde 3–0 zege van Oranje op Japan |language=nl |publisher=Voetbal International |date=5 September 2009|access-date=16 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908075917/http://www.vi.nl/Nieuws-item/169686/Geflatteerde-30-zege-van-Oranje-op-Japan.htm|archive-date=8 September 2009|url-status=dead}} In his second match, on 9 September 2009, Elia scored the only goal to win a match against Scotland.{{cite web |title=Elia opnieuw goudhaantje Oranje |language=nl |url=http://www.voetbalzone.nl/doc.asp?uid=85781 |publisher=voetbalzone.nl |date=9 September 2009|access-date=16 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.voetbalzone.nl/doc.asp?uid=85781|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA SCHIET ORANJE NAAR RECORD |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/3258/eljero-elia-schiet-oranje-naar-record |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=9 September 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} He made his first start for the senior team, in a 0–0 draw against Australia on 10 October 2009.{{cite news |title=DUEL MET EEN PAAR LICHTPUNTJES |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/934/duel-met-een-paar-lichtpuntjes |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=10 October 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia followed up by making three straight starts in the next three matches.{{cite news |title=GEEN GOALS BIJ ITALIË-NEDERLAND |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/786/geen-goals-bij-itali%C3%AB-nederland |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=14 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE OPNIEUW DOELPUNTLOOS |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/710/oranje-opnieuw-doelpuntloos |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=18 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE KRAP LANGS VS IN ARENA |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/2870/oranje-krap-langs-vs-arena |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=3 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} He scored his second international goal in a 6–1 friendly win over Hungary with a solo effort after coming on as a substitute.{{cite news |title=BLESSURE ROBBEN SMET OP 6–1 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/6326/blessure-robben-smet-op-6-1 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=5 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}

In May 2010, Elia was included in the preliminary squad for the FIFA World Cup in South Africa despite facing uncertainties over his injury that he sustained while at Hamburger SV.{{cite news |title=VAN NISTELROOY NIET NAAR WK |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/5114/van-nistelrooy-niet-naar-wk |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=11 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Lens, Anita, Schaars en Engelaar vallen af |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/146250/lens-anita-schaars-en-engelaar-vallen-af/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=15 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=CREATIEVE ELIA VERLANGT NAAR WK |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/5318/creatieve-elia-verlangt-naar-wk |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=16 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} On 27 May 2010, Dutch manager Bert van Marwijk announced that Elia would be part of the 23-man final squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/may/27/holland-world-cup-23-man-squad |title=Holland coach Bert van Marwijk finalises World Cup squad |work=The Guardian |date=27 May 2010 |agency=Press Association|access-date=27 May 2010 |location=London|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/may/27/holland-world-cup-23-man-squad |archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Vlaar, Anita, Engelaar en Lens vallen af |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/146250/lens-anita-schaars-en-engelaar-vallen-af/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=27 May 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Prior to the tournament, Elia caused controversy in the Dutch media when he tweeted "cancer Moroccan", prompting a ban of use of Twitter.{{cite news |title=TWITTEREN NIET MEER TOEGESTAAN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/6622/twitteren-niet-meer-toegestaan |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=9 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Marwijk verbiedt spelers tóch te twitteren |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/148382/van-marwijk-verbiedt-spelers-toch-te-twitteren/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=9 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} This led Elia making an apology for his action.{{cite news |title=Elia heeft 'ongelooflijk veel spijt' van uitlatingen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/148401/elia-heeft-ongelooflijk-veel-spijt-van-uitlatingen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=10 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia: "Excuses aan gehele Marokkaanse gemeenschap" |url=https://www.goal.com/nl/news/218/wk-2010/2010/06/10/1967915/elia-excuses-aan-gehele-marokkaanse-gemeenschap |publisher=Goal.com |language=nl |date=10 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the first match, he came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute and set up their second goal in a 2–0 win over Denmark, with his shot hitting the post and Dirk Kuyt tapping it in.{{cite news |title=NEDERLAND WINT ZONDER FRANJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/6902/nederland-wint-zonder-franje |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=14 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, Elia found his playing time, coming from the substitute throughout the tournament.{{cite web |date=9 June 2010|access-date=9 June 2010 |publisher=FIFA |url=https://www.fifa.com/live/competitions/worldcup/matchday=9/day=1/match=300111117/index.html |title=Netherlands v Japan live "Play-by-Play"|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201194141/http://www.fifa.com/live/competitions/worldcup/matchday%3D9/day%3D1/match%3D300111117/index.html|archive-date=1 December 2008|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE NIPT LANGS JAPAN: 1–0 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/7310/oranje-nipt-langs-japan-1-0 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=20 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=GROEPSWINNAAR, MAAR KWETSBAAR |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/7714/groepswinnaar-maar-kwetsbaar |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=24 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE TEGEN BRAZILIE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/7982/oranje-tegen-brazilie |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=28 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE NAAR WK-FINALE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/8746/oranje-naar-wk-finale |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=6 July 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} He later said about the role, saying: "If I come in for five or ten minutes, then I do my very best and I want to show my good side. It's nice to fill in, because the boys also help you well."{{cite news |title=Elia: "Het is lekker om in te vallen" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/150095/elia-het-is-lekker-om-in-te-vallen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=27 June 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} In the final, Elia was a 71st-minute substitute for Kuyt, as Netherlands finished runners-up to Spain.{{cite news |title=World Cup 2010 final: Andrés Iniesta finds key for Spain to beat Holland |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jul/11/world-cup-final-holland-spain1 |work=The Guardian |date=11 July 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite web |title=Iniesta puts Spain on top of the world (Netherlands 0 Spain 1 |url=https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/worldcup/southafrica2010/matches/round=249721/match=300061509/summary.html |publisher=FIFA|access-date=18 January 2015 |date=11 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227141447/https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/worldcup/southafrica2010/matches/round=249721/match=300061509/summary.html|archive-date=27 December 2013|url-status=dead}}

Following the tournament, Elia was called up to the Netherlands squad in August.{{cite news |title=WK-GANGERS TERUG IN VOORSELECTIE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/11090/wk-gangers-terug-voorselectie |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=18 August 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=VAN MARWIJK ROEPT 23 SPELERS OP |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/11626/van-marwijk-roept-23-spelers-op |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=27 August 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} He made his first start of the year for the senior national team against San Marino on 3 September 2010 and played 59 minutes before being substituted, in a 5–0 win.{{cite news |title=DEGELIJKE ZEGE OP SAN MARINO: 0–5 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/12246/degelijke-zege-op-san-marino-0-5 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=3 September 2010|access-date=18 June 2021}} It wasn't until on 26 January 2011 when Elia was called up to the Netherlands squad for the first time in four months.{{cite news |title=DEBUTANTEN IN VOORSELECTIE ORANJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/19346/debutanten-voorselectie-oranje |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=26 January 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} He made his first appearance in five months, coming on as a second half substitute, in a 3–1 win against Austria on 9 February 2011.{{cite news |title=ORANJE SIMPEL LANGS OOSTENRIJK: 3–1 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/20106/oranje-simpel-langs-oostenrijk-3-1 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=9 February 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} Following this, Elia found his playing time, coming from the substitute and he helped the senior national team qualify for the UEFA Euro 2012 after beating Finland 2–0 on 6 September 2011.{{cite news |title=ZEGE SUPERIEUR ORANJE: 0–4 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/21958/zege-superieur-oranje-0-4 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=25 March 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=SLORDIG NEDERLAND WINT: 0–2 |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/27758/slordig-nederland-wint-0-2 |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=6 September 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA: 'GROTE KANS OP WINST EK' |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/28966/elia-grote-kans-op-winst-ek |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=7 October 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE KAN MAAR EEN KEER SCOREN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/29014/oranje-kan-maar-een-keer-scoren |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=7 October 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ORANJE ONDERUIT IN ZWEDEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/29218/oranje-onderuit-zweden |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=11 October 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}

After a year absence from the national team, Elia was called up to the Netherlands squad on 13 October 2012.{{cite news |title=ELIA EN CLASIE BIJ ORANJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/43454/elia-en-clasie-bij-oranje |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=13 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} Three days later on 16 October 2012, he made his first appearance for the national team in over a year, coming on as a late substitute, in a 4–1 win against Romania.{{cite news |title=WK IN BRAZILIË EEN STUK DICHTERBIJ |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/43630/wk-brazilië-een-stuk-dichterbij |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=16 October 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia made another appearance for Netherlands in a follow–up match against Germany, coming on as a second half substitute, in a 0–0 draw.{{cite news |title=DOELPUNTLOOS GELIJKSPEL ORANJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/44630/doelpuntloos-gelijkspel-oranje |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=14 November 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}} After a three years absence, he was called up to the national team for the first time in three years, but did not play.{{cite news |title=BLIND ROEPT ELIA EN BAZOER OP |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/63694/blind-roept-elia-en-bazoer-op |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=5 October 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} In May 2018, Elia was called up to the Netherlands for the first time in almost two years.{{cite news |title=ELJERO ELIA EN TERRENCE KONGOLO IN VOORSELECTIE ORANJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/72652/eljero-elia-en-terrence-kongolo-voorselectie-oranje |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=9 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=KOEMAN ROEPT 25 SPELERS OP VOOR DEFINITIEVE SELECTIE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/72766/koeman-roept-25-spelers-op-voor-definitieve-selectie |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=18 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} He made his first appearance for the senior team for the first time in almost six years, coming on as a 75th-minute substitute, in a 1–1 draw against Slovakia on 31 May 2018.{{cite news |title=REMISE VOOR ORANJE IN SNIKHEET SLOWAKIJE |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/72887/remise-voor-oranje-snikheet-slowakije |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=31 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia made another appearance for Netherlands, coming on as an 82nd-minute substitute, in a 1–1 draw against Italy on 4 June 2018.{{cite news |title=AKÉ VOORKOMT NEDERLAAG ORANJE TEGEN ITALIË |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/72935/aké-voorkomt-nederlaag-oranje-tegen-italië |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=4 June 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} As of 4 June 2018, he made thirty appearances and scoring two times for Oranje.

Personal life

Born in the Netherlands and raised in The Hague, Elia is of Surinamese descent.{{Cite web |url=https://www.natiosuriname.com/p/profvoetballers-van-surinaamse-afkomst.html |title=Profvoetballers van Surinaamse afkomst |website=Natio Suriname | Voetbal |access-date=22 November 2020 |archive-date=24 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924084846/https://www.natiosuriname.com/p/profvoetballers-van-surinaamse-afkomst.html |url-status=usurped }}
{{cite news |title=Mijn moeder in Suriname snapt er niets meer van |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/133352/Mijn-moeder-in-Suriname-snapt-er-niets-meer-van |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=17 September 2015 |access-date=18 June 2021 }}
{{cite news |title=Elia verbaast zich: "De haat was voelbaar op het veld" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/286587/elia-verbaast-zich-de-haat-was-voelbaar-op-het-veld/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=30 October 2015 |access-date=18 June 2021 }}
{{cite news |title=Elia: 'De haat was voelbaar op het veld' |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/134575/Elia-De-haat-was-voelbaar-op-het-veld |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=30 October 2015 |access-date=18 June 2021 }}{{cite news |title=Southampton Fill-Ins Continue to Be First-Rate |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/19/sports/soccer/southampton-fill-ins-continue-to-be-first-rate.html |work=The New York Times |date=19 January 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia's first name is an homage to his sister's favourite jazz singer, Al Jarreau.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia |url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/eljero-elia#2HiqXVdV7sQHU7tm.99|access-date=3 February 2015 |work=Four Four Two |date=11 June 2010}} As a child, he idolised Romário. In an interview with Trouw, Elia said that he is a religious person and became a first-time father when his girlfriend Sanne gave birth to a daughter.{{cite news |title=Je moet stabiel zijn in je hoofd en in dat proces zit ik |url=https://www.trouw.nl/nieuws/je-moet-stabiel-zijn-in-je-hoofd-en-in-dat-proces-zit-ik~bc38629a/ |work=Trouw |language=nl |date=14 November 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}{{cite web |url=http://junioren.voetbal.nl/article/3828/dit-wist-je-nog-niet-over-eljero-elia |title=Dit wist je nog niet over Eljero Elia |publisher=Voetbal |language=nl |date=11 March 2010|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110326135450/http://junioren.voetbal.nl/article/3828/dit-wist-je-nog-niet-over-eljero-elia|archive-date=26 March 2011|url-status=dead}} In November 2012, Elia became a second-time father when his second daughter was born.{{cite news |title=Elia zum zweiten Mal Vater |url=https://www.weser-kurier.de/werder/elia-zum-zweiten-mal-vater-doc7e3wy9v3i3q1fj0pj54m |publisher=Weser Kurier |language=de |date=7 November 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia legt uit: 'Dochter van 6 jaar werd met spoed naar IC gebracht' |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/373098/elia-legt-uit-dochter-van-6-jaar-werd-met-spoed-naar-ic-gebracht/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=28 September 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} In 2019, he became a third-time father when his first son was born. In June 2015, Elia announced his marriage to his long term girlfriend, Sanne.{{cite web |url=https://www.ad.nl/buitenlands-voetbal/eljero-elia-stapt-in-huwelijksbootje~a2f3a1c7/ |title=Eljero Elia stapt in huwelijksbootje |work=Algemeen Dagblad |language=nl |date=1 June 2015|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190116100036/https://www.ad.nl/buitenlands-voetbal/eljero-elia-stapt-in-huwelijksbootje~a2f3a1c7/|archive-date=16 January 2019|url-status=dead}}

In September 2008, Elia was fined €200 for assaulting a scooter rider three months earlier.{{cite news |title=Twente-aanvaller Elia beboet voor handgemeen |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/103413/twente-aanvaller-elia-beboet-voor-handgemeen/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 September 2008|access-date=18 June 2021}} In addition to speaking Dutch, he speaks German and English.{{cite news |title=ELIA: 'IK KIJK VEEL NAAR RAFAEL' |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/938/elia-ik-kijk-veel-naar-rafael |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=6 October 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=ELIA WIL WEER VLAMMEN |url=https://www.onsoranje.nl/nieuws/nederlands-elftal/27478/elia-wil-weer-vlammen |publisher=Ons Oranje |language=nl |date=1 September 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}{{cite news |title=Eljero-Elia: "Die Welt soll mich kennenlernen" |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article107582490/Eljero-Elia-Die-Welt-soll-mich-kennenlernen.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=30 October 2009|access-date=18 June 2021}} On 7 March 2016, Elia was brought in for questioning and arrested for his alleged involvement in a brawl in Rotterdam city centre the week before.{{cite news |title=Feyenoorder Elia nacht in cel als verdachte van mishandeling |url=https://www.ad.nl/nederlands-voetbal/feyenoorder-elia-nacht-in-cel-als-verdachte-van-mishandeling~a7439c20/ |work=Algemeen Dagblad |language=nl |date=7 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} After spending a night in jail, he was released and Feyenoord's manager Van Bronckhorst was said to be disappointed with his action and the club fined Elia as a result.{{cite news |title=Feyenoorder Elia nacht in cel |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/139487/Feyenoorder-Elia-nacht-in-cel |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=7 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Feyenoord legt Elia boete op, aanvaller donderdag terug op trainingsveld |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/139539/Feyenoord-legt-Elia-boete-op-aanvaller-donderdag-terug-op-trainingsveld |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=9 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van Bronckhorst: teleurgesteld in Elia |url=https://www.rijnmond.nl/nieuws/139629/Van-Bronckhorst-teleurgesteld-in-Elia |publisher=RTV Rijnmond |language=nl |date=11 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Although Elia maintained that he did not make contact in the brawl, he, nevertheless, was fined three months by the Rotterdam court.{{cite news |title=Elia over vechtpartij: "Ik heb niemand aangeraakt" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/294050/elia-over-vechtpartij-ik-heb-niemand-aangeraakt/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=8 March 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia krijgt boete voor betrokkenheid bij mishandeling |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/299460/elia-krijgt-boete-voor-betrokkenheid-bij-mishandeling/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=17 June 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia vertelt over nacht in cel: "Weet dat je onterecht vast zit" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/311505/elia-vertelt-over-nacht-in-cel-weet-dat-je-onterecht-vast-zit/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=5 February 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}} Throughout his football career, Elia developed a reputation as a bad boy by the Dutch media.{{cite news |title=Ex-Hamburger SV Elia kämpft gegen sein Image |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/hsv/article108877937/Ex-Hamburger SV-Elia-kaempft-gegen-sein-Image.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=30 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Fußball-Ticker: Elia kauft Luxus-TV und schaut mit Dutt |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article121169853/Fussball-Ticker-Elia-kauft-Luxus-TV-und-schaut-mit-Dutt.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=24 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Makaay verdedigt Elia na ophef: "Dat is typisch Eljero" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/376182/makaay-verdedigt-elia-na-ophef-dat-is-typisch-eljero/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=29 November 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}} Responding to the claims, he denied having such reputation, saying: "I don't know why something like this is being said. Or why I'm being labeled a problem professional. I didn't cause any trouble. I'm a quiet guy, I'm with my family the whole time and I don't do nothing – I don't go out. What else can you do? It can be hard to come up. Only what you can [do] is let your feet speak. You cannot fight against the media. The media can make you and they can break you. I can tell you from my heart, I swear on my children, the things they were saying in the newspaper was not the truth. It's not the truth. You can see it by yourself."{{cite news |title=Für Werder verzichtete Elia auf einen Ferrari |url=https://www.derwesten.de/sport/fussball/1-bundesliga/fuer-werder-verzichtete-elia-auf-einen-ferrari-id7035009.html |publisher=Der Westen |language=de |date=28 August 2012|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Southampton winger Eljero Elia says the image portrayed of him as a bad-boy is not true |url=https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11712717.southampton-winger-eljero-elia-says-the-image-portrayed-of-him-as-a-bad-boy-is-not-true/ |work=Daily Echo |date=9 January 2015|access-date=18 June 2021}} Elia described himself as an "emotional footballer", who "plays with emotion and a lot of passion", while manager Mario Been, on the other hand, called him erratic and "incredibly obsessed with the game".{{cite news |title=Elia: "Van mijn keeperstrainer geleerd hoog te schieten" |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/293104/elia-van-mijn-keeperstrainer-geleerd-hoog-te-schieten/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=21 February 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia verdiende ineens veel geld, maar heeft dat nu wel gezien |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/302205/blinker-elia-kreeg-ineens-een-dikke-auto-onder-zijn-kont/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=9 August 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Elia made headlines when he had a severe infection due to a poorly applied tattoo, due to feeling uncomfortable wearing the shirt, leading Hamburg's neighbours Werder Bremen have since banned their players from getting tattoos.{{cite news |title=Werder Bremen players slapped with tattoo ban |url=https://www.thelocal.de/20110712/36229/ |publisher=The Local |date=12 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia was lang uitgeschakeld door infectie van tattoo |url=https://www.parool.nl/nieuws/elia-was-lang-uitgeschakeld-door-infectie-van-tattoo~b82df321/ |work=Het Parool |language=nl |date=14 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Teures Tattoo |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/article108046617/Teures-Tattoo.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=9 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Bedenklicher Trend: Gezeichnet fürs Leben |url=https://www.abendblatt.de/sport/fussball/article108046813/Bedenklicher-Trend-Gezeichnet-fuers-Leben.html |publisher=Hamburger Abendblatt |language=de |date=9 July 2011|access-date=18 June 2021}} Another occurred in May 2016 when Elia had a tattoo with the name Feyenoord misspelt.{{cite news |title=Feyenoord ace Eljero Elia gets wrong tattoo to mark Dutch cup glory |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/blog/the-toe-poke/65/post/2865151/feyenoord-ace-eljero-elia-gets-wrong-tattoo-to-mark-dutch-cup-glory |publisher=ESPN |date=5 May 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ex-Southampton star Eljero Elia gets the worst tattoo of all time |url=https://metro.co.uk/2016/05/05/ex-southampton-star-eljero-elia-gets-the-worst-tattoo-of-all-time-5862146/ |publisher=Metro |date=5 May 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}} Along with Demy de Zeeuw and Gregory van der Wiel, he founded a brand called BALR.{{cite news |title=We spraken Demy de Zeeuw over zakelijk succes, politie-invallen en slechte voetbalanalisten |url=https://www.vice.com/nl/article/9k87e8/demy-de-zeeuw-zakelijk-succes |publisher=Vice |language=nl |date=21 July 2016|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Van der Wiel voleyi vurdu |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/van-der-wiel-voleyi-vurdu-2712271 |publisher=Milliyet |language=tr |date=24 July 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}} He also opened a record label, The Culture.{{cite news |title=Eljero Elia over zijn nieuwe hiphoplabel, George Floyd en racisme |url=https://www.vice.com/nl/article/k7qwpa/eljero-elia-over-zijn-nieuwe-hiphoplabel-george-floyd-en-racisme |publisher=Vice |language=nl |date=5 June 2020|access-date=18 June 2021}}{{cite news |title=Şampiyon olmamız zor |url=https://www.milliyet.com.tr/skorer/sampiyon-olmamiz-zor-2670501 |publisher=Milliyet |language=nl |date=17 May 2018|access-date=18 June 2021}}

Career statistics

=Club=

{{updated|match played on 10 December 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://int.soccerway.com/players/eljero-elia/2153/ |title=Eljero Elia |work=Soccerway |publisher=Global Sports Media |access-date=21 February 2015}}

rowspan="2"\|Club !rowspan="2"\|Season !colspan="3"\|League !colspan="2"\|Cup !colspan="2"\|Continental !colspan="2"\|Total
class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" \|+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Division !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals
rowspan="4"\|ADO Den Haag \|2004–05 \|rowspan="3"\|Eredivisie \|4	1	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	4	1
2005–06 \|30	2	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	30	2
2006–07 \|25	3	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	26	3
colspan="2"\|Total !59	6	1	0			60	6
rowspan="3"\|Twente \|2007–08 \|rowspan="2"\|Eredivisie \|30	2	0	0	6	0	36	2
2008–09 \|34	9	5	4	8	1	47	14
colspan="2"\|Total !64	11	5	4	14	1	83	16
rowspan="4"\|Hamburger SV \|2009–10 \|rowspan="3"\|Bundesliga \|24	5	1	0	10	1	35	6
2010–11 \|24	2	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	25	2
2011–12 \|4	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	5	0
colspan="2"\|Total !52	7	3	0	10	1	65	8
Juventus \|2011–12 \|Serie A \|4	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	5	0
rowspan="4"\|Werder Bremen \|2012–13 \|rowspan="3"\|Bundesliga \|24	0	1	1	colspan="2"\|—	25	1
2013–14 \|33	4	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	33	4
2014–15 \|9	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	10	0
colspan="2"\|Total !66	4	2	1	colspan="2"\|—	68	5
Southampton (loan) \|2014–15 \|Premier League \|16	2	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	17	2
rowspan="3"\|Feyenoord \|2015–16 \|rowspan="2"\|Eredivisie \|31	8	6	0	colspan="2"\|—	37	8
2016–17 \|24	9	4	1	3	0	31	10
colspan="2"\|Total !55	17	10	1	3	0	68	18
rowspan="4"\|İstanbul Başakşehir \|2017–18 \|rowspan="3"\|Süper Lig \|24	5	0	0	8	3	32	8
2018–19 \|21	1	2	0	1	0	24	1
2019–20 \|23	3	0	0	7	0	30	3
colspan="2"\|Total !68	9	2	0	16	3	86	12
Utrecht \|2020–21 \|Eredivisie \|21	2	2	0	colspan="2"\|—	23	2
ADO Den Haag \|2021–22 \|Eerste Divisie \|4	0	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	4	0
colspan="3"\|Career total !409	60	27	6	42	5	467	69

=International goals=

:Updated to games played 27 March 2015.{{cite web |url=http://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=49589 |title=Eljero Elia: Football Stats |publisher=Soccerbase |access-date=2 April 2015}}

{{International goals header|ref=no|above=Eljero Elia: International goals}}

{{Ig match|n=1|d1=9 September 2009|st=Hampden Park|ci=Glasgow|co=Scotland|o=SCO

|sc=1–0|fr=1–0|comp=2010 FIFA World Cup qualification}}

{{Ig match|n=2|d1=5 June 2010|st=Amsterdam ArenA|ci=Amsterdam|co=Netherlands|o=HUN

|sc=5–1|fr=6–1|comp=Friendly}}

Honours

Juventus

Serie A: 2011–12

Feyenoord

İstanbul Başakşehir

Süper Lig: 2019–20

Netherlands

FIFA World Cup runner-up: 2010

Individual

Johan Cruyff Trophy: 2008–09{{cite web |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/462/netherlands/2009/05/12/1261135/twente-winger-eljero-elia-scoops-up-eredivisie-talent-of-the |title=Twente winger Eljero Elia scoops up Eredivisie Talent of the Year Award |website=Goal.com}}
Bundesliga Goal of the Month: December 2009{{cite web |url=http://www.sportschau.de/sendung/tdm/archiv/chronik00er/dezember2009tdm100.amp |title=Dezember 2009 – Elia |language=de |website=Sportschau.de}}
The Hague's Sportsman of the Year: 2016{{cite web |url=https://denhaagfm.nl/2016/12/05/genomineerden-haagse-sportprijzen-bekend-2/ |title=Genomineerden Haagse Sportprijzen bekend |publisher=Den Haag FM |language=nl |date=5 December 2016|access-date=18 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924122723/https://denhaagfm.nl/2016/12/05/genomineerden-haagse-sportprijzen-bekend-2/|archive-date=24 September 2020|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news |title=Elia op sportgala verkozen tot Haags Sportman van het Jaar |url=https://www.fcupdate.nl/voetbalnieuws/310881/elia-op-sportgala-verkozen-tot-haags-sportman-van-het-jaar/ |publisher=FC Update |language=nl |date=23 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Elia op Haags Sportgala uitgeroepen tot Haags Sportman van het Jaar |url=https://feyenoord.supporters.nl/nieuws/artikel/39406/Elia-op-Haags-Sportgala-uitgeroepen-tot-Haags-Sportman-van-het-Jaar |publisher=Feyenoord Supporters News |language=nl |date=23 January 2017|access-date=18 June 2021}}

References

External links

[http://www.vi.nl/Spelers/Speler/EljeroElia.htm Eljero Elia] {{Webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20121204165714/http://www.vi.nl/Spelers/Speler/EljeroElia.htm |date=4 December 2012 }} Voetbal International {{in lang|nl}}
[http://www.skysports.com/football/player/0,19754,11915_310492,00.html Eljero Elia stats] at Sky Sports
{{kicker|eljero-elia}}
[https://web.archive.org/web/20160118060322/http://www.onsoranje.nl/team-statistieken/teams/speler/25/4f8c4268-4056c255-087007 Holland stats] at OnsOranje {{in lang|nl}}

Category:1987 births

Category:Living people

Category:Sportspeople from Voorburg

Category:Dutch men's footballers

Category:Netherlands men's youth international footballers

Category:21st-century Dutch sportsmen

Category:Netherlands men's under-21 international footballers

Category:Netherlands men's international footballers

Category:Men's association football wingers

Category:ADO Den Haag players

Category:FC Twente players

Category:Hamburger SV players

Category:Juventus FC players

Category:SV Werder Bremen players

Category:Southampton F.C. players

Category:Feyenoord players

Category:İstanbul Başakşehir F.K. players

Category:FC Utrecht players

Category:Eredivisie players

Category:Bundesliga players

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Category:Süper Lig players

Category:2010 FIFA World Cup players

Category:Dutch expatriate men's footballers

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in England

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Germany

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Category:Dutch expatriate sportspeople in Turkey

Category:Dutch sportspeople of Surinamese descent

Category:VSV TONEGIDO players

Category:Footballers from South Holland

rowspan="2"\|Club !rowspan="2"\|Season !colspan="3"\|League !colspan="2"\|Cup !colspan="2"\|Continental !colspan="2"\|Total
class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" \|+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Division !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals !Apps !Goals
rowspan="4"\|ADO Den Haag \|2004–05 \|rowspan="3"\|Eredivisie \|4	1	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	4	1
2005–06 \|30	2	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	30	2
2006–07 \|25	3	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	26	3
colspan="2"\|Total !59	6	1	0			60	6
rowspan="3"\|Twente \|2007–08 \|rowspan="2"\|Eredivisie \|30	2	0	0	6	0	36	2
2008–09 \|34	9	5	4	8	1	47	14
colspan="2"\|Total !64	11	5	4	14	1	83	16
rowspan="4"\|Hamburger SV \|2009–10 \|rowspan="3"\|Bundesliga \|24	5	1	0	10	1	35	6
2010–11 \|24	2	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	25	2
2011–12 \|4	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	5	0
colspan="2"\|Total !52	7	3	0	10	1	65	8
Juventus \|2011–12 \|Serie A \|4	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	5	0
rowspan="4"\|Werder Bremen \|2012–13 \|rowspan="3"\|Bundesliga \|24	0	1	1	colspan="2"\|—	25	1
2013–14 \|33	4	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	33	4
2014–15 \|9	0	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	10	0
colspan="2"\|Total !66	4	2	1	colspan="2"\|—	68	5
Southampton (loan) \|2014–15 \|Premier League \|16	2	1	0	colspan="2"\|—	17	2
rowspan="3"\|Feyenoord \|2015–16 \|rowspan="2"\|Eredivisie \|31	8	6	0	colspan="2"\|—	37	8
2016–17 \|24	9	4	1	3	0	31	10
colspan="2"\|Total !55	17	10	1	3	0	68	18
rowspan="4"\|İstanbul Başakşehir \|2017–18 \|rowspan="3"\|Süper Lig \|24	5	0	0	8	3	32	8
2018–19 \|21	1	2	0	1	0	24	1
2019–20 \|23	3	0	0	7	0	30	3
colspan="2"\|Total !68	9	2	0	16	3	86	12
Utrecht \|2020–21 \|Eredivisie \|21	2	2	0	colspan="2"\|—	23	2
ADO Den Haag \|2021–22 \|Eerste Divisie \|4	0	0	0	colspan="2"\|—	4	0
colspan="3"\|Career total !409	60	27	6	42	5	467	69