Report: Newcastle United Set Strategic Plan for Antonio Cordero After Learning from Past Academy Mistakes
Newcastle United are preparing to officially welcome Spanish starlet Antonio Cordero to the club in July, and they’ve already outlined a carefully constructed development plan for the highly-rated teenager. Determined not to repeat previous errors made with other young prospects, the Magpies are taking a more considered and deliberate approach with Cordero’s integration into senior football.
The 18-year-old winger, who currently plays for Málaga CF in Spain’s Segunda División, attracted attention from European powerhouses Real Madrid and Barcelona, but it was Newcastle who ultimately secured his signature—an impressive coup that reflects the club’s growing reputation in global recruitment.
A Rising Star with Experience Beyond His Years
Cordero’s statistics speak for themselves. Despite his youth, the Spaniard has already racked up 60 first-team appearances, establishing himself as a key figure for Málaga. During the 2024/25 season, he was involved in 12 goals, underlining his creative ability and composure on the ball. Newcastle’s scouting department is confident they have landed a player with the potential to be a future first-team star.
Currently on international duty with Spain’s Under-19 team at the UEFA European Championships, Cordero has already begun turning heads. He delivered a goal and an assist in a recent match against Romania, offering fans a glimpse of what he could bring to St. James’ Park in the future.
Lessons from the Past: The Garang Kuol Example
Newcastle’s cautious optimism around Cordero stems from lessons learned with another talented young player—Garang Kuol. Signed from Australian side Central Coast Mariners in 2023, Kuol had just featured for Australia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, rather than integrating him into the club gradually, Newcastle immediately loaned him out to Hearts in Scotland, where he struggled to make an impact, scoring just once in eight appearances.
Things didn’t improve much during his subsequent stint at FC Volendam in the Dutch Eredivisie. There, Kuol again found himself out of place in a system that didn’t suit his style, managing just one goal in 15 games. It was only upon his return to Newcastle that he began to rediscover his form, scoring five goals in 10 Premier League 2 appearances for the youth side. This resurgence has sparked hope that he could still fulfil his potential, albeit on a longer timeline.
A Smarter Development Path for Cordero
Determined not to repeat the same mistakes, Newcastle have reportedly created a 12 to 24-month development plan specifically tailored for Cordero. According to The Athletic, the club’s staff believe Cordero is already too advanced for Under-21 football, but he is not yet ready to take up a valuable non-homegrown player spot in the Premier League squad. The solution? A carefully selected loan move.
Unlike with Kuol, Newcastle are approaching Cordero’s development with patience and precision. The goal is to send him to a club where he will play regularly, be challenged tactically, and adapt to a new environment—all of which are considered essential for his long-term growth. The club is placing emphasis on the quality of the loan destination, not just the convenience.
Eredivisie Loan Move on the Cards – Ajax Among Suitors
In recent years, Newcastle have built strong ties with Dutch football, frequently sending young talents to the Eredivisie. For instance, Yankuba Minteh enjoyed a successful loan spell at Feyenoord, where he lifted the Dutch Cup and significantly boosted his profile. Conversely, Kuol’s underwhelming experience at Volendam serves as a reminder that not every Dutch team offers the right fit.
Another Newcastle prospect, Miodrag Pivas, spent time at Willem II, though he made just five appearances. With this mixed track record, loan manager Shola Ameobi is expected to be heavily involved in selecting the best possible landing spot for Cordero.
Among potential destinations, Ajax have emerged as a leading contender. Reports suggest the Amsterdam club are interested in taking Cordero on loan for the 2025/26 campaign. A move to Ajax would be significant for the teenager, offering exposure to European football and the chance to develop in one of the most respected youth-focused environments in Europe. Ajax narrowly missed out on the Eredivisie title last season, and they’re looking to reinforce their squad with dynamic young talent.
Focus Remains on International Duty
For now, Cordero remains focused on Spain’s Under-19 European Championship campaign. His immediate priority is helping his country in a crucial clash against Germany on Monday. But once his international duties conclude, his future will be shaped by the plan Newcastle have put in motion.
By learning from the past and taking a long-term view, Newcastle United are positioning Antonio Cordero for success—both for his benefit and for the club’s future ambitions.