Premier League2 hours ago2 minute read

Anthony Gordon Thriving at Barcelona After Summer Transfer

Anthony Gordon has settled quickly at Barcelona following his 70 million euro move from Newcastle United.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

A dream move to Spain

Growing up in Merseyside, Anthony Gordon always believed he would play for Barcelona. That dream became reality when the 25 year old winger made the switch from Newcastle United for an initial 70 million euros in the summer.

Gordon has quickly become a regular in coach Hansi Flick's attacking line alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. After helping Barcelona to a Champions League win against Aston Villa, he heads into a major LaLiga clash against Atlético Madrid.

His road here included plenty of hard work. He faced relegation battles with Everton, a loan spell at Preston North End in 2021, and long goal droughts at Newcastle. Yet he always maintained his belief that he belonged at the highest level.

Finding the right system

Gordon recently explained that playing under Flick provides a tactical setup that highlights his qualities. He noted that fans in England are now seeing his football intelligence because he is playing in a system that brings out his best traits.

Defenders who faced him in the Premier League are not surprised by his success in Spain. Former Burnley defender Maxime Estève praised Gordon for his sharp movement and his desire to take on defenders in one on one situations.

After winning Newcastle's player of the season award in the 2023-24 campaign, Gordon scored 16 goals last term, including 10 in Europe. That form earned him a five year contract at Camp Nou.

Why Barcelona made the move

Barcelona chose Gordon in the summer after Robert Lewandowski left on a free transfer and Ferran Torres moved to PSG for 55 million euros. Sporting director Deco noted that the squad needed more work rate and energy when key wingers were unavailable.

Flick wanted forwards who press hard as a collective unit and win the ball back quickly. Gordon fits that selfless style, providing an effective complement to Yamal and Raphinha in attack.

What it means for the next game

Fulham vs Newcastle United (Premier League, Sat, 07 Nov): Fulham win 47%, draw 25%, Newcastle United win 28%; expected goals 1.69 to 1.26. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona (LaLiga, Sun, 08 Nov): Atlético Madrid win 29%, draw 22%, Barcelona win 49%; expected goals 1.53 to 2.04. Our safest pick: Barcelona or Draw.