Afner Cá’s first months on Tyneside have moved quickly enough to catch the breath. Newcastle signed the Guinea-Bissau-born forward from Levante in the summer for their B side, but the 19-year-old has already trained with Eddie Howe’s senior squad and was named in the matchday group for the Premier League meeting with Aston Villa.
Key takeaways
- Cá joined Newcastle after Levante chose not to extend his deal, which had one year left plus an option for another.
- The 2007-born attacker has returned three goals and one assist for Newcastle’s B team.
- He was an unused substitute against Aston Villa, his first senior call-up for a competitive fixture.
- Cá began senior football at Portuguese neighbourhood club Amora when he was 16.
- He has recently received Portuguese nationality and is eligible to represent Portugal.
From Levante uncertainty to a Premier League squad
Newcastle’s recruitment staff spotted Cá during his time at Levante, where his route to the first team never quite settled. He arrived at the Spanish club in 2025 after attracting attention with his physical and technical potential, having already made his first-team debut for Amora at 16.
His first pre-season at Levante brought encouraging signs, although administrative issues prevented him from beginning the campaign on time. Once available, he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. He nevertheless scored four goals and was well regarded around the club’s residence for his character as well as his ability.
With Levante uncertain over his place in their plans, and unwilling to renew his contract, Newcastle made their move. The forward had signed a one-year agreement with an option for a further season in Spain, yet the chance to head for England reshaped his prospects.
A quicker route than expected
The initial intention was a period of development with Newcastle’s B side. Cá has adapted smoothly, however, and his three goals and assist have helped push him into the senior picture before November.
Training with the first team led to his selection for the Aston Villa fixture, even if a Premier League debut did not follow on that occasion. For a player whose senior journey began in local football only a few years ago, a place in Newcastle’s matchday group is another sizeable step.
Portugal now have an additional option at international level after Cá was granted citizenship. His club progress remains at an early stage, but Newcastle’s decision to bring him into first-team training suggests the next chapter may not be far away.
