Spanish media dig out Anthony Gordon before England vs DR Congo after £69.3m transfer
Spanish media outlets have renewed their attack on Anthony Gordon ahead of England's World Cup clash with DR Congo, questioning Barcelona's decision to sign the winger for £69.3million.
Prior to the tournament, Gordon completed his transfer from Newcastle United to Barcelona, who declined the opportunity to sign Marcus Rashford for less than half that amount despite his impressive season on loan. At his Barcelona presentation, Gordon impressed supporters and journalists by addressing them in both Spanish and Catalan. However, his World Cup performances have prompted Spanish media to pose a critical question: did they sign the right player?
The 25-year-old was selected ahead of Rashford for England's Group L opener against Croatia but proved ineffective, while Rashford emerged from the bench to score the match-sealing fourth goal. Manager Thomas Tuchel maintained faith with Gordon for the Ghana match, but he again struggled to influence proceedings before being omitted for the group finale against Panama as Rashford took his place in the starting line-up.
Spanish publication ABC delivered particularly savage criticism of Gordon, brutally observing that he ran down the corridor of the mixed zone with the press faster than his attacks on the wing in this World Cup matches. The same report suggested Barcelona supporters would be watching with concern about what is happening on England's left wing during this World Cup and questioned why Rashford, who featured in the Barcelona side that won La Liga, was not signed instead.
ABC noted that Barcelona had paid a fortune for Gordon despite the club's financial struggles. The piece emphasised the immense pressure he faces due to the weight of his transfer fee, the challenge of joining a European giant, the scrutiny of the global stage, and constant comparisons to the player who owns the opposite flank at Barcelona, Lamine Yamal. Being measured against one of the world's best is arguably unfair, yet it is to be expected when a club has just staked eighty million euros on a player.
Gordon also faced criticism from Spanish media outlets El Periodico and La Vanguardia following earlier matches. It would be a surprise if Gordon featured in the starting XI against Congo, although Tuchel could feasibly opt for Eberechi Eze or Morgan Rogers on the left side.