‘I was really surprised’: Fermin Lopez on Barcelona team-mate Anthony Gordon

Fermin Lopez says Anthony Gordon was the Barcelona signing who surprised him most during the summer transfer window.

The Spain midfielder has been impressed by the England winger’s performances since his arrival and believes Gordon can provide qualities that were not available to the Catalan club to the same extent last season.

Lopez is enjoying one of the strongest periods of his career after recovering from the disappointment of missing the 2026 World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico and Canada. He was ruled out of the tournament after suffering a fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot.

The 23-year-old has returned from that injury in excellent form for both Barcelona and Spain. He has scored four goals and supplied two assists in the opening rounds of La Liga, performances which earned him a call-up from Spain manager Luis de la Fuente for the latest international break.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo from Spain’s training camp in Las Rozas, Lopez was asked which of Barcelona’s new arrivals had made the biggest impression on him.

He said he was not surprised by Rodri’s arrival because he already knew the midfielder’s ability.

“I already knew him, so I was not surprised either,” Lopez said.

He then identified Gordon as the newcomer who had caught him most off guard, explaining that he had not watched enough of the winger before the move.

“We played against Newcastle in the Champions League several times, but I did not see that much of him. I did not watch many matches and, honestly, I was very surprised,” he said.

Lopez believes Gordon has quickly become an important addition to Barcelona and praised the impact he can make in the team’s attack.

“He is a player who will help us a lot,” he added.

The midfielder also said Gordon had adapted quickly to life at Barcelona and had developed a strong understanding with his new team-mates. That adjustment has been reflected in the winger’s performances since joining the club.

While Gordon settles into his new surroundings, Lopez has also continued to build momentum following his return from injury. His early-season displays for Barcelona led to his recall by Spain, giving him the opportunity to re-establish himself at international level after missing the World Cup.