Manager says he’s trying to keep player grounded ahead of transfer to Newcastle United
As 18-year-old Antonio Cordero prepares to embark on his Newcastle United journey, Spain’s U19 manager Paco Gallardo is ensuring the promising attacker remains fully focused on the present.
With the UEFA U19 Championship kicking off, Gallardo has made it his mission to shield the Málaga CF academy product from distractions surrounding his impending Premier League move.
Newcastle confirmed last week they had secured Cordero’s services on a free transfer once his contract expires June 30th, with plans to immediately loan out the teenager for further development.
But before donning black and white, the youngster has unfinished business representing his country in a tournament Gallardo describes as “a once-in-a-lifetime event.”
The Spain U19 boss, who boasts English football experience from his Leeds United coaching stint, understands the hype surrounding Cordero’s transfer better than most.
When asked by AS about managing external noise, Gallardo revealed his hands-on approach: “I try to minimise those situations and keep them grounded.” His message to Cordero resonates with perspective – while Premier League opportunities may come, this European showcase won’t.
Gallardo’s relationship with the Newcastle-bound talent runs deep, having handed Cordero his international debuts at both U18 and U19 levels.
The attacker repaid that faith by becoming a mainstay during qualifying, showcasing the technical ability that convinced Newcastle to act.
The timing of Cordero’s impending move adds fascinating layers to his tournament participation. Unlike peers solely focused on club futures, he balances the pressure of international competition with knowledge of an awaiting Premier League chapter.
Gallardo’s management will prove crucial in ensuring the transition energizes rather than overwhelms his young charge.
Once the final whistle blows on Spain’s campaign, Cordero’s attention will shift to Tyneside before immediately embarking on a loan spell.
This carefully structured development path mirrors Newcastle’s strategy with recent academy additions – test promising talents in competitive environments before integrating them at St. James’ Park.
For now, Gallardo’s words echo as Cordero prepares to face Denmark: the European stage offers irreplaceable moments no future contract can replicate.
How the teenager channels this advice may determine both Spain’s tournament fortunes and his readiness for the challenges awaiting in English football.
One thing remains certain – Newcastle’s newest recruit is being schooled by a manager who understands exactly what it takes to succeed abroad.