Since Newcastle United’s takeover, one of the club’s most consistent recruitment strategies has been the signing of what many call “project players” young talents with potential, often brought in for modest fees and developed into either first-team contributors or profitable assets.
The focus has been on finding players who can grow within Eddie Howe’s system, adapting to the Premier League’s intensity while carrying long-term value for the club.
One of the most recent examples of this approach is Antonio Cordero, an exciting teenage winger whose move generated plenty of interest when it was confirmed in July.
Cordero, just 18 years old, joined Newcastle after a promising season with Malaga in Spain’s La Liga 2, where he featured regularly and impressed with his pace, dribbling, and technical skill.
His signing was seen as another shrewd move by Newcastle’s recruitment team, who have increasingly turned their attention toward the European youth market.
The deal was low-risk but potentially high-reward, as he arrived on a free transfer following Malaga’s struggles in the Spanish second division.
Given his age and the step up required to compete at Premier League level, it was always expected that Cordero would spend time away from Tyneside to gain experience.
In August, just a month after signing, he was loaned out to Belgian side KVC Westerlo a club known for giving young players valuable minutes in a competitive European league.
The plan seemed ideal: consistent playing time, adaptation to a new footballing culture, and the chance to continue his development before returning to England stronger and more prepared.
However, the start of his loan spell hasn’t gone according to plan. Two months into his time in Belgium, Cordero has found opportunities limited.
Despite his reputation as a bright prospect, he’s managed just 81 minutes of football since arriving spread across a few brief appearances. He’s yet to start a game, with one 45-minute outing and a couple of short cameos of around 15 to 20 minutes each.
His last two appearances before the international break saw him come on in the dying minutes, including one appearance where he played for just a single minute.
For a young player used to starting regularly in Spain, the lack of minutes will undoubtedly be frustrating. Cordero had enjoyed a breakout season with Malaga, featuring 40 times in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign.
That kind of rhythm and confidence is hard to regain when limited to sporadic cameos, and it’s clear that adapting to Belgian football has been more challenging than expected.
Still, it’s important to remember that he is only 18 and adjusting to life in a new country with a different language, culture, and footballing style. Young players often need time to adapt, and loans can be unpredictable.
For Newcastle, this situation is part of the learning curve that comes with nurturing raw talent abroad. Some loans succeed immediately, while others take time or, in some cases, need to be re-evaluated altogether.
The hope is that Cordero will begin to find his footing as the season progresses. A player of his quality and determination should eventually break into the team if he can show progress in training and adapt to his manager’s expectations.
Westerlo, for their part, will likely recognize his potential and look for ways to integrate him more as the campaign unfolds.
If his situation doesn’t improve in the coming months, however, Newcastle may have to make a decision in the January transfer window. It wouldn’t be unusual for the club to reassess a loan deal that isn’t providing the expected development opportunities.
A return to Spain or a different European club could be considered to ensure he continues to grow and gain valuable experience.
For now, patience will be key. Cordero has already shown he possesses the technical qualities and mentality needed to succeed at a higher level. What he needs most is consistent playing time and confidence both of which will come with the right environment and support.
Newcastle’s coaching staff and loan managers will be keeping a close eye on his progress, ready to step in if necessary.
Cordero’s story is a reminder of the delicate balance involved in managing young prospects. Success doesn’t always come instantly, and adaptation takes time.
While his start in Belgium has been slow, it’s far too early to judge. With determination and the right opportunities, Antonio Cordero could still prove to be one of Newcastle United’s smartest long-term signings in their ongoing quest to build a sustainable and talented future.
