Málaga boss Juan Francisco Funes says he has “special affection” for Newcastle United’s Antonio Cordero, also known as Antoñito.
The winger left Málaga as a free agent at the end of last season to join Newcastle United.
Last August, the Premier League side let him join KVC Westerlo on loan so that Cordero can continue his development.
However, the temporary move to Belgium turned out to be a disaster as the 19-year-old played 102 minutes from eight matches.
At the time of his signing, Newcastle United confirmed he will go out on loan. Last August, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain his entourage wanted him to join a European club.
However, that didn’t happen as Westerlo failed to qualify for any European competition this season. His struggles in Belgium convinced Eddie Howe’s side to cut short his loan stay.
Cordero decided to take a step back to enjoy regular minutes and showcase his qualities and moved to the Segunda División to join Cádiz CF on loan in January. He played 587 minutes from 10 matches but is yet to score or contribute an assist.
Below are his stats per game from his short spell with Cádiz.
Big chances created [overall]: 3
Key passes: 1.4
Shots on target: 0.6
Successful dribbles: 0.7
Total duels won: 1.7
Cádiz host Málaga in the league later today and ahead of this clash, Funes talks about his former player and Málaga Hoy have relayed his comments.
The Magpies attacker graduated from Málaga’s youth system and made his way into their first team in 2023.
He managed seven goals and nine assists from 69 matches and his form had caught the attention of several clubs. During his time at Málaga, he played under Funes with their reserve team.
Funes on Newcastle United player
Newcastle United
The club promoted Funes as the first team manager in 2025. On facing his former player, he said: “I have a special affection for him. He arrived at the reserve team very young. I think he did very well. He had a fantastic season with us.”
“I think it’s true, not just for him, but for any player, something you have to keep in mind: you have to find an environment where you can grow, and not just any environment.”
“When I refer to the environment, I don’t just mean the club, but a system that facilitates your style of play. That’s good for any player, not only to grow, but to show their best version of football.”
Cordero’s former manager explains where he thinks his best position is on the pitch.
“I’ve seen him play many matches on the right wing, and that does surprise me a bit more, because personally… He has the qualities to play up front in any position, but personally, I like him best behind the striker,” Funes explained.
“Sometimes on the left wing, we do have space to advance, because if we play in a low block… perhaps in another area of the field he could have more of an advantage to show what a good player he is, because Antonio has impressive qualities.”
What next for Cordero and Magpies
The Spain U19 international will return to St James’ Park after this season, where he has a contract until 2030.
He could struggle to find a prominent role under Howe next season and therefore, another loan may be a possibility.
Transfermarkt value him €2m, and that hasn’t changed since October 2024.