Anthony Gordon reaches historic Barcelona milestone after four-game La Liga run

Anthony Gordon has made an immediate impact at Barcelona, producing an assist in each of his first four La Liga appearances and joining an exclusive group of players to achieve that feat in the 21st century.

The England international recorded his fourth consecutive assist in Barcelona’s match against Valencia, maintaining a remarkable run since making his league debut for the Catalan club. His contribution against Valencia means he has created a goal in every one of his opening four games in the competition.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Gordon is only the third player this century to provide four assists in his first four La Liga matches. The two players to previously reach the mark were Cesc Fabregas and Luis Suarez, who both accomplished it while wearing the Barcelona shirt.

Gordon’s rapid start has placed him among the most productive newcomers in Barcelona’s modern history. His influence has been especially notable given the sharp contrast with his output in the Premier League last season.

During 26 league appearances in England last term, Gordon supplied two assists. He has already doubled that total in only four matches since moving to Barcelona, underlining how quickly he has adapted to both his new club and the Spanish top flight.

The 24-year-old is now one assist away from matching Lionel Messi’s total for the opening four matches of the 2011-12 La Liga season. Messi created five goals during that period, leaving Gordon within touching distance of a benchmark set by one of Barcelona’s greatest-ever players.

Gordon’s start reflects the qualities that have made him an important part of Barcelona’s attacking play from the moment he arrived. Operating from the wing, he has shown an ability to create advantages in one-on-one situations and find team-mates in dangerous areas.

That combination of direct running, movement and final-ball quality has enabled him to make an immediate contribution rather than requiring an extended period of adjustment. His assist against Valencia extended a sequence that has continued in every league appearance so far.

Although the comparison with Fabregas, Suarez and Messi places Gordon among some of Barcelona’s most notable attacking figures, his achievement is based on a relatively small sample of matches. Even so, four assists in four La Liga games represents an exceptional beginning and gives the England player a significant early place in the club’s record books.

Barcelona will hope Gordon can maintain that level of creativity as the season develops. For now, his first four league outings have provided a highly promising indication of his influence and have made him one of the standout early performers in the team.