Keegan was usually cautious about signing players immediately after a World Cup, but Belgium’s Albert reportedly changed his mind. The Newcastle manager watched the centre-back in two matches and was impressed by his composure, strength and threat at set pieces.
Albert subsequently moved from Anderlecht to Newcastle, with the transfer completed soon after the tournament. His admiration for Keegan made the decision easier.
“Quando eu era garoto e ele jogava no Liverpool, eu era fã dele,” Albert recalled.
For Keegan, it was a reminder that international tournaments could reveal more than statistics. They could also provide a close-up view of how a player handled pressure.
The second success was Switzerland right-back Marc Hottiger, who reportedly joined from Sion. He had been part of a Swiss side that progressed from a competitive group, and his energy on the flank appealed to Newcastle.
The report says Hottiger quickly became memorable in Newcastle colours, playing a decisive role in a victory over Manchester United at the Ibrox Tournament. His time on Tyneside was brief, but his affection for the club endured.
“Eu adorei meu tempo no Newcastle. Era um clube especial e eu ainda penso neles hoje,” Hottiger later said.
Leonardo was the ambitious third target. Keegan reportedly became interested after watching Brazil, even defending the left-sided player following his infamous clash with Tab Ramos.
“Eu não achei que ele tivesse feito tanta coisa errada. Ele estava sendo segurado, sofreu a falta primeiro,” Keegan said.
The proposed move appears not to have materialised. Leonardo instead continued his career with Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan after Brazil’s triumph.
Keegan’s World Cup gamble ultimately delivered two signings from three targets. The next time Newcastle scout a major tournament, that small piece of history will remain a compelling reminder of how quickly one summer can reshape a squad.