The Englishman has hit the ground running in Spain and become an influential presence in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona attack.
While he is still waiting for his first goal, Gordon’s pace and directness are well suited to Barcelona’s attack.
“Our idea of play is much more linked to Anthony’s,” Barcelona sporting director Deco replied when asked why they had chosen Gordon over Rashford.
“His style fits with what the coach is looking for.”
And it seems Gordon has settled in very quickly.
“I feel at home already,” Gordon said. “The city is amazing. The guys have made me feel so welcome. I think I will get better and better the longer I’m here.”
Playing primarily from the left, he has given Flick another way of hurting opponents.
His ability to attack space stretches the defence, while his movement without the ball creates opportunities for team-mates.
That has been particularly noticeable alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Barcelona boss Flick said: “I think as a striker, from his side, you want to score goals. He has had some chances and he missed them.
“But he has made the final pass to prepare the goals and this is also very important.”
Gordon produced two assists in the space of four minutes against Elche in his debut league game.
He also went one-on-one with the Elche keeper and had the opportunity to score a debut goal.
However, Gordon instead chose to square the ball across the face of goal for Fermin Lopez, who made no mistake from close range.
That moment revealed plenty about Gordon’s mentality to supporters. Rather than chasing the glory of a debut goal, he prioritised the better option for the team.
“You always want to win but it’s always about the team first,” Gordon said after the match. “Especially at this club.”
For Barcelona supporters, it was another indication they had signed a player who is not simply interested in making an individual impact, but in doing whatever it takes to help the team succeed.
