REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth
It looks set to be a big season ahead for Anthony Gordon as he starts his career as a Barcelona star. The Englishman left Newcastle United ahead of the 2026 World Cup, having scored 17 goals in 46 games last term for the Magpies, including ten in the Champions League.
While he didn't come cheap, costing Barca close to £70m, Hansi Flick will hope the 25-year-old can bring real energy and attacking quality to his front line. Gordon's work rate certainly cannot be criticised, but the English press weren't always convinced of his final product, as he bagged only 31 goals in 176 Premier League games, having started out at Everton.
With that in mind, it will be interesting to see how he's treated by the media in Barcelona. Having now made his debut, the Spanish press have had their first glimpse of the player and weren't shy in offering up their early thoughts.
Spanish Media React as Gordon Makes Debut vs Basel
REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth
Making his non-competitive debut for Barca, Gordon played 45 minutes in the 5-2 win over Basel. He didn't get on the scoresheet or find an assist, but the initial reaction has been quite positive. His new supporters were delighted by his 'direct' style of play, and the Spanish media were similarly pleased.
In a match report from Sport, via Newcastle Chronicle, Gordon’s performance was given a 7/10 mark as he was dubbed a "game-changer". Adding to that, their journalists keenly noted how he started “very brightly” and showed his impressive change of pace. It was also said that Gordon “works hard off the ball” and linked up well with his new teammates.
Finally, while the publication admitted that the forward “lost steam and influence” towards the end of his outing, the winger's overall performance was only lacking a goal to “complete a brilliant debut”.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in action for Barcelona
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in action for Barcelona
Gordon's Link-Up With New Teammates Sparks Excitement
Mundo Deportivo also praised Gordon alongside fellow new boy Karim Adeyemi. The report claimed that the win would have helped “satisfy fans’ curiosity” as the pair started in attack together, adding that supporters would have been “pleased” with both attackers’ efforts.
The same outlet recognised that there was a “real buzz” to watch Gordon on debut. While it was a bit of a “mixed bag”, they were largely positive about the Englishman who started “brightly”, demonstrated “character” on the pitch and showed his "pace down the wing”. His link-up play with Raphinha as a false nine also looked promising as it provided “a taste of what awaits Barca fans”.
Finally, the match report from AS detailed how Gordon looked bright alongside his fellow summer arrivals, as they said “the new signings shone." The 25-year-old was praised as one of Barcelona’s two “very sharp” wingers who delivered “dangerous crosses” for their teammates.
Along with Adeyemi and Raphinha, AS suggested that there were enough signs that the trio’s movement to believe they “can be a very effective weapon” for Barcelona this season.