Jose Cordoba's Rise Under Clement
Jose Cordoba's trajectory has reached new heights in recent months, with the Panamanian defender crediting Philippe Clement as a key factor.
Cordoba endured a mixed first season in England after the Canaries fought hard to secure his signature from Levski Sofia in June 2024, beating off interest from Rangers, who were then managed by Clement.
While the 24-year-old showed flashes of his ability in possession and raw physicality, he struggled for consistency and often displayed a degree of naivety. However, City's patience with him paid off, as Cordoba took significant strides forward last season, performing at a level above the Championship.
Cordoba's World Cup Aspirations
Fresh from his inclusion in Panama's 26-man squad and the mouth-watering prospect of facing Harry Kane next month, the 24-year-old has reflected on his club form under Clement.
He talks to me personally a lot and tries to improve every detail. I've always seen that as an advantage, and I'm happy with how things have turned out, Cordoba told Panamanian outlet The Pink'un.
Cordoba has aspirations to become a Premier League player in the near future. He insists that it all depends on him to make that dream happen through his performances.
Facing Top Strikers in the Tournament
Cordoba will come up against the likes of Harry Kane and Antoine Semenyo next month, a challenge he is relishing.
I feel 100% ready to face those types of strikers. I've spent three months thinking about those matches, studying the strikers, their quality, and their strengths and weaknesses, he admitted.
In the build-up to the tournament, the nation will take on five-time winners Brazil in a friendly at the Maracan. Cordoba expressed excitement about playing in such a prestigious stadium.
I think the Maracan is a very high expectation. It's one of the most important stadiums in Brazil. What player wouldn't want to play there? It's going to be very important and very special to play this friendly match.