Anthony Gordon arrived at Barcelona this summer with huge expectations, but his 2026 World Cup campaign has yet to take off. The England winger, who completed an €80 million move from Newcastle United before the tournament, has started both of Thomas Tuchel's opening group-stage matches but has struggled to make a decisive impact in either.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford, whose €30 million purchase option Barcelona chose not to activate following his loan spell, has made a strong early impression. The England forward has already found the back of the net and looked lively during his limited 25 minutes of action.
Rashford's wage demands may have been a factor in Barcelona's decision, but based on early World Cup performances, the contrast is difficult to ignore. With a €50 million gap between the two deals, Gordon will be eager to show why Barça viewed him as the better long-term investment.
Worrying Gordon signs
The new Barcelona winger has struggled to make a meaningful attacking impact across his two starts. Gordon has found it difficult to beat his marker down the left flank and has offered little end product when cutting inside, failing to create any clear chances for his teammates. He was particularly pocketed by the Ghana defence in the second game; a defence that fails to be recognised at a "top club".
With no goals, no assists and no moments of genuine attacking quality, his performances have lacked the consistency many expected heading into the tournament. That will be a concern for England supporters and may also leave some Barcelona fans questioning whether he can justify his hefty transfer fee in his debut season at the club.
The brightest aspect of Gordon's game so far has been his work off the ball. His relentless pressing, intensity and pace have helped England disrupt opponents high up the pitch, but Barcelona will be hoping to see far more from him in possession as the tournament progresses.
To say Gordon has yet to reflect the fee Barcelona paid for him would be an understatement. While it is still early days, his performances have already raised concerns among some supporters that the move could follow a familiar pattern, where a talent arrives with enormous expectations but struggles to justify the investment.
Comparisons with Ousmane Dembélé and Philippe Coutinho may be premature, but they underline the growing anxiety that Gordon's undoubted ability may not translate as seamlessly to Barcelona as many had hoped.
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