Gordon backs Barcelona to build on historic start after Paris Saint-Germain defeat

Anthony Gordon says the mood inside the Barcelona dressing room remains positive despite their 4-2 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

The England international said the players were proud of the character they showed during a demanding week and remained focused on continuing their strong start to the season.

Asked by ESPN about the atmosphere at Barcelona following the loss in Paris, Gordon said: “The atmosphere is still the same. We have made a historic start to the season and we are looking forward to continuing what we have started.”

The defeat was Barcelona’s first in all competitions this season, ending a run of domestic and European victories.

Gordon admitted the result had been difficult to accept because Barcelona had competed well for long periods of an entertaining match.

“It was a tough defeat against Paris Saint-Germain because it was a very good game, and we were competitive for long periods,” he said.

“But I felt they were able, physically, to maintain their level of performance for longer than we were.”

The former Newcastle United player said the circumstances surrounding the match also needed to be considered. He pointed out that Paris Saint-Germain had been able to rest some of their players before facing Barcelona, while his own side had endured a particularly difficult week.

“There are some circumstances that need to be taken into account,” Gordon added. “They gave their players rest before playing us, while we had a very difficult week, whether because of travelling, the matches or some other things that people do not know about.”

Despite the disappointment, Gordon praised the way Barcelona had handled the demands placed on them.

“I think the character we showed during that week was exceptional, some of the best you can see from a team,” he said.

“So I am very proud of what we achieved during that week and of our start to the season in general. We are looking forward to continuing to work in the same way.”