Joan Laporta has already justified Barcelona's biggest signing of the summer by lavishing praise on Anthony Gordon following the England performances at the World Cup.
The Barcelona chief has claimed that their new signing in the left winger position is in “excellent form” and has referenced an assist to Jude Bellingham for the first goal against Norway as “magnificent”.
The goal, which sparked controversy over claims the ball struck a spider camera wire during the build-up, highlighted exactly why Barcelona were so keen to sign Gordon. The England winger showcased his quality by beating his marker with renowned pace before cutting the ball back from the edge of the penalty area to Jude Bellingham. The Real Madrid midfielder then took over, gliding past his defender before coolly slotting home the equaliser.
Speaking about the Liverpool-born winger, Laporta highlighted one particular attribute that draws comparisons with Lamine Yamal: his exceptional ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations.
"“Anthony Gordon is in excellent form. He’s super in the 1v1, his assist for Jude Bellingham was magnificent”. "Laporta speaking about Gordon
While Gordon is unlikely to replicate Yamal's game-changing influence, the prospect of the pair lining up on Barcelona's wings will strike fear into La Liga full-backs next season. If Gordon can maintain his current form, he has every chance of replacing Raphinha on the left and forming one of the league's most dangerous wide partnerships.
Gordon's World Cup form
The England international, whose likeness has drawn comparisons to Princess Diana, started the Three Lions' opening World Cup matches against Croatia and Ghana but struggled to make a significant impact. His underwhelming displays prompted some Barcelona supporters to question the club's decision to sign him, with calls growing for Marcus Rashford to be pursued instead.
However, Gordon has since silenced many of those critics. His breakthrough performance came off the bench against DR Congo, where he transformed the game by providing two assists for Harry Kane. In the electric atmosphere of the Azteca Stadium, he then won the decisive penalty for England's third goal, using his blistering pace and a clever touch to round the goalkeeper before being brought down.
He built on that display against Norway, where his direct running left Julian Ryerson with few answers. Gordon's pace repeatedly troubled the Borussia Dortmund full-back, while his ability to either cut inside onto his stronger foot or burst down the outside gave England a constant attacking outlet and played a key role in their victory.
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