New Newcastle United signing broken down after Setback
Newcastle United’s newest recruit Antonio Cordero, affectionately known as Antonito, has experienced the bittersweet taste of international tournament football during his first weeks as a Magpies player.
The 19-year-old winger, who became Eddie Howe’s first summer signing earlier this month, recently returned from the Under-19 European Championship in Romania where his Spanish side suffered final heartbreak against the Netherlands.
The talented teenager played a significant role throughout Spain’s impressive campaign, featuring in their group stage victories over Denmark and Romania before being rested for their final match against Montenegro.
His contributions helped secure top spot in Group A with a perfect record, setting up a remarkable semi-final clash with Germany that saw eleven goals across 120 minutes of thrilling football.
Unfortunately for Antonito and his teammates, the final proved a cagey affair decided by cruel fortune. After 62 minutes of intense competition, an own goal by Raul Jimenez separated the sides in a match that produced 33 attempts but no goals from open play.
The Newcastle prospect worked tirelessly before being substituted in the 77th minute as Spain chased an equalizer that never materialized.
While the silver medal represents disappointment for such a talented generation of Spanish youngsters, Antonito’s performances throughout the tournament have given Newcastle fans plenty of reasons for optimism.
His direct wing play, technical ability and maturity beyond his years suggest the club have secured another exciting prospect following their successful acquisition of Yankuba Minteh two years ago.
Attention now turns to the youngster’s integration at St James’ Park as he prepares to join first-team training next month. While a season-long loan move appears the most likely next step in his development – mirroring Minteh’s pathway – Eddie Howe will undoubtedly want to assess the teenager closely during pre-season before making any final decisions.
The Spanish youth international’s versatility across the forward line could prove valuable as Newcastle balance domestic and European commitments this season.
His tournament experience against Europe’s elite at youth level demonstrates a temperament that may accelerate his progression, though the club’s hierarchy will be careful not to rush such a promising talent.
For now, Antonito can reflect on an impressive individual campaign that saw him shine on the international stage while earning a move to one of the Premier League’s most ambitious projects.
While the final result didn’t go his way, his performances in Romania suggest Newcastle may have uncovered another gem who could follow in the footsteps of the club’s recent successful young signings.
As pre-season approaches, all eyes will be on how Howe plans to develop his new acquisition, with the coming weeks crucial in determining whether Antonito remains with the first-team squad or gains experience elsewhere.
Whatever the decision, his Euro 2024 campaign has provided encouraging evidence that Newcastle’s recruitment team have identified another exciting prospect for the future.