Anthony Gordon has already supplied Barcelona an alternative choice by way of the center after claiming he can play as a No. 9 following his spectacular debut.
The England worldwide got here off the bench to offer two assists as Barcelona started their LaLiga title defence with a 5-0 win over Elche.
Gordon joined Barcelona from Newcastle United for a reported 70m euros on a five-year contract and was launched within the sixty fifth minute, changing Lamine Yamal on the left.
The 25-year-old wanted two minutes to make an impression, discovering Raphinha for Barcelona’s third purpose earlier than organising Fermin Lopez 4 minutes later.
Raphinha scored twice, whereas Lopez additionally discovered the online on two events and Karim Adeyemi marked his debut with a purpose.
Gordon’s arrival is a part of Barcelona’s efforts so as to add extra depth to their assault, with the membership additionally bringing in Adeyemi and Jesse Bisiwu this summer season.
Nonetheless, they continue to be focused on discovering one other centre-forward, with Julian Alvarez amongst their most popular targets.
A transfer for the Atletico Madrid striker is proving tough, although, leaving Gordon’s means to function centrally doubtlessly much more helpful to Hansi Flick.
Requested if he might fill the No. 9 function, Gordon was clear about his willingness to take action.
“Yeah in fact, I performed there final 12 months rather a lot. I performed rather well I believed,” he mentioned.
“I’ve received totally different strengths to a typical No. 9. I can come and go and hyperlink play. I can do it. I prefer to play there.”
Striker a well-recognized function for Gordon
Though Gordon is primarily a left winger, he was repeatedly used by way of the center throughout his time below Eddie Howe at Newcastle.
His versatility might due to this fact give Flick an alternative choice as he manages his attacking gamers all through the season.
Hey Gordon, verify you! 🤩
Two assists on Antony Gordon’s La Liga debut for Barcelona, all inside six minutes of coming off the bench! 👏 pic.twitter.com/nW8uYKhaMA
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) August 23, 2026
Gordon additionally confirmed an unselfish aspect for his second help.
He had the prospect to shoot himself after breaking ahead, however as a substitute squared the ball to Lopez, leaving his team-mate with a easy end.
The choice highlighted Gordon’s willingness to place Barcelona’s end result forward of his personal purpose tally.
“I feel it’s the appropriate resolution,” he mentioned.
“If Fermin had the ball and I used to be in his place I’d need him to cross, I feel it’s the proper soccer resolution.
“We’re a crew, it’s not about me scoring.”
