Daniel Cordone, Argentinian footballer

The Career of Carlos Daniel "Lobo" Cordone: An Argentine Striker's Journey

Carlos Daniel Cordone, affectionately known by his enduring nickname "Lobo" (Spanish for "Wolf"), born on 6 January 1974, is a retired Argentine professional football player renowned for his tenacious and powerful play as a striker. Throughout his career, Cordone left his mark on various clubs across Argentina and had a brief, albeit challenging, stint in English football.

Early Career and Rise in Argentina

Cordone began his professional journey at Vélez Sarsfield, one of Argentina's most successful clubs, particularly during the 1990s. He emerged from the club's respected youth academy, known as "El Fortín" due to their home stadium's formidable atmosphere. Cordone spent six formative seasons at Vélez, honing his skills and establishing himself as a promising forward within the competitive landscape of Argentine Primera División. His consistent performances earned him a significant move in 2000 to Racing Club de Avellaneda, one of Argentina's traditional "Big Five" football clubs. This transfer underscored his growing reputation and ability to perform at the highest levels of domestic football.

A Brief European Experience with Newcastle United

Later in 2000, Cordone embarked on an international adventure, signing with English Premier League side Newcastle United for a reported transfer fee of £500,000. His arrival at St. James' Park came during a period when the Premier League was increasingly attracting international talent, and expectations for foreign imports were often high. However, Cordone's tenure in England proved challenging and relatively brief, lasting just one season.

Despite his limited appearances and struggles to consistently secure a starting role amid competition from established players like club legend Alan Shearer, Cordone did manage to find the back of the net on three occasions for the Magpies. He notably scored two goals in the Premier League against Derby County and Tottenham Hotspur, demonstrating glimpses of his striking prowess. Additionally, he netted another goal against Bradford City in the League Cup (now known as the EFL Cup).

Return to Argentina and Continental Glory

Following his spell in England, Cordone returned to Argentina in 2001, joining Argentinos Juniors. This club holds a unique place in Argentine football history, famously known as a "seedbed" for developing iconic talents such as Diego Maradona and Juan Román Riquelme. For Cordone, it was an opportunity to reignite his career in a familiar environment.

After one season with Argentinos Juniors, he made a pivotal move to San Lorenzo de Almagro, another esteemed member of Argentina's "Big Five." It was at San Lorenzo that Cordone achieved one of the most significant triumphs of his career. In 2002, he played an integral role in helping the club win the inaugural Copa Sudamericana. This continental title was a historic achievement for San Lorenzo, solidifying their place in South American football, and a personal highlight for Cordone, cementing his legacy at the club.

Later Career and Enduring Passion

Towards the latter stages of his playing career, Carlos Cordone continued to demonstrate his dedication to football, featuring for clubs in various lower divisions of the Argentine league system. He played for Argentino de Merlo in the Primera C Metropolitana, which at the time constituted the fourth tier of Argentine football primarily for clubs in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area. He also represented Independiente Rivadavia in the Torneo Argentino A, a third-division league designed for clubs from Argentina's interior provinces. These stints showcased his enduring passion for the game, even as he transitioned away from the national top flight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carlos Daniel "Lobo" Cordone

What was Carlos Daniel Cordone's nickname?

He was widely known by his nickname "Lobo," which means "Wolf" in Spanish, likely a testament to his tenacious and combative style of play as a striker.

Which major international trophy did Carlos Cordone win?

Carlos Cordone was part of the San Lorenzo de Almagro squad that won the inaugural Copa Sudamericana in 2002, marking a significant continental achievement in his career.

How many goals did Carlos Cordone score for Newcastle United?

During his single season at Newcastle United, Carlos Cordone scored three goals. These included two in the Premier League (against Derby County and Tottenham Hotspur) and one in the League Cup (against Bradford City).

Which prominent Argentine clubs did Carlos Cordone play for in the top flight?

In the Argentine Primera División, Carlos Cordone played for Vélez Sarsfield, Racing Club de Avellaneda, Argentinos Juniors, and San Lorenzo de Almagro.