Gordon’s Barcelona impact draws unexpected praise from Madrid-based Marca

Barcelona have received an unusual seal of approval from Madrid-based newspaper Marca, which has praised summer signing Anthony Gordon after his impressive display against Elche.

The outlet, widely associated with Real Madrid, described the England international with the headline: “Barcelona have signed a rocket”, highlighting the winger’s exceptional speed and immediate influence in Barcelona colours.

Gordon’s top speed has been recorded at 37.92km/h, making him the fastest player measured in the UEFA Champions League. He was also the quickest player at the most recent World Cup, according to Marca.

The newspaper pointed to one particular moment against Elche as evidence of the qualities Barcelona believe he can bring to their attack. Gordon carried the ball for about 20 metres, opened a gap of three metres on his marker and then ran through on goal before supplying Fermin Lopez, who scored Barcelona’s fourth goal.

Marca described the move as a clear demonstration of Gordon’s ability and said Barcelona now possess a genuine threat on the left wing. The report also noted that the club have Karim Adeyemi on the right, giving them another attacker capable of producing outstanding bursts of pace.

Gordon’s value, however, was not presented as being limited to his speed. Marca also praised his ability to press opponents, arguing that his acceleration allows him to recover possession quickly and challenge defenders effectively.

His arrival was not initially viewed as the most likely solution to Barcelona’s attacking needs. At the beginning of the summer, the club’s priority was understood to be the signing of a traditional centre-forward, particularly after Robert Lewandowski moved to the American league.

The decision to pursue Gordon was instead driven by Hansi Flick. The Barcelona manager had followed the player throughout the previous season and watched him closely during Newcastle’s UEFA Champions League matches. That assessment convinced Flick that the England winger was worth bringing to the Catalan club.

Barcelona had previously decided against activating their €30m option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently. They subsequently moved for Gordon in a deal worth €70m in guaranteed payments, with a further €10m available in add-ons.

The winger needed little time to make an impression. He provided two assists in his first match, underlining the attacking contribution Barcelona hope he can offer from the flank.

Gordon’s versatility also gives Flick another option in the final third. Although primarily used as a wide player, he can operate as a centre-forward, allowing Barcelona to adjust their formation and attacking approach when required.

The praise from Marca is notable because Barcelona supporters have become accustomed to reading criticism of the club in the Madrid press. In this case, however, the newspaper’s assessment was emphatic: Gordon’s speed, pressing and ability to create chances have already marked him out as one of Barcelona’s most dangerous new attacking outlets.