Anthony Gordon believes Barcelona have given him something he struggled to find consistently during his career: a midfielder capable of recognising his runs before defenders do.
The English winger has settled quickly following his summer move from Newcastle United, and his growing understanding with Pedri could become an important weapon for Hansi Flick’s attack.
Speaking to Barça magazine (h/t SPORT), Gordon explained how the Spain international has changed the way he can exploit space in the final third.
“I’ve made plenty of runs throughout my career that nobody saw, but now I’ve got Pedri, who sees absolutely everything,” the winger said.
How Pedri is helping Gordon thrive at Barcelona
Gordon believes the transition from Newcastle has been quite easy because of the similarities between the two teams’ approaches.
Both demand aggressive pressing and forward movement, allowing him to adapt without having to rebuild his game from scratch.
“Adapting has been relatively straightforward because at Newcastle we already played in a similar style, pressing hard and attacking with the team pushing forward.”
The biggest difference, he explained, is the quality surrounding him at Barcelona.
Gordon has nothing but praise for Pedri. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
“With the ball too, because now I’m playing alongside some of the best players in the world.”
Furthermore, Gordon has also benefited from support off the pitch.
Still learning Spanish, he singled out Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo for helping him communicate with teammates and understand conversations within the dressing room.
“Eric Garcia has helped me a lot because he speaks perfect English.
“I understand a bit of Spanish, but when they speak very quickly or amongst themselves, I find it harder to follow them. Dani Olmo has also helped me a lot.”
Gordon targets goals as Barcelona expectations grow
Despite his encouraging adaptation, Gordon knows that goals must eventually become a bigger part of his contribution.
He has yet to find the scoring opportunities he wants, but insists his previous experience gives him confidence that improvement will come.
Gordon is yet to score for Barcelona, although he has provided five assists. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
“I think I can contribute goals. I haven’t had many chances to score yet.”
He added: “At every club and at every stage of my career, I’ve needed a bit of time before I’ve started scoring regularly. But I’m convinced I’ll score plenty of goals.”
Gordon wants Barcelona to create a lasting legacy
Gordon is also embracing the expectations that come with representing Barcelona, rejecting the idea that pressure should dictate his performances.
“I don’t really believe in pressure. It’s something you create in your own mind.”
Lastly, when asked about Barcelona’s greatest side, he pointed to Pep Guardiola’s Champions League-winning team featuring Xavi and Iniesta.
“The best Barça I’ve ever seen is Pep Guardiola’s, the one that won the Champions League with players like Xavi and Iniesta.
“I want this team to be remembered forever,” he concluded.
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