Anthony Gordon revealed it has always been his dream to play for Barcelona, which is why he answered questions in fluent Spanish at his unveiling on Friday.
The winger swapped Newcastle United for the Catalan club this week in a deal worth up to £69.3 million (€80m), inclusive of add-ons.
The 25-year-old, who finished this season as the Magpies’ top goalscorer with 17 goals, had four years left to run on his contract after signing a long-term extension in 2024.
Bayern Munich had been in talks to sign the England international, while Liverpool had been previously linked with him, but there was only ever one club he wanted to join.
Anthony Gordon speaks fluent Spanish following Barcelona transfer
Anthony Gordon speaking in Spanish at his Barcelona unveiling after making the move from Newcastle pic.twitter.com/pNZAT9DIpv
Gordon went as far as learning how to speak Spanish and practiced with Newcastle’s physio on a daily basis, demonstrating how much he believed in his dream of playing for Barcelona.
“I wanted to speak Spanish because, as I kid, I believed I would play for Barça, believe it or not,” Gordon told reporters.
“I have a physio in Newcastle and we spoke every day and I told him that one day I would play for Barça, so I wanted to learn Spanish.”
He added: “As soon as I knew Barça was a serious option, there was never any question. I always wanted Barça. Barça is the biggest club on the planet.
“It’s the stuff I dreamed of as a child. It really is a dream come true to be here. I know it comes with a lot of responsibility, but I’m ready for this kind of challenge.
“I know the players in the past who’ve worn the shirt… it holds a lot of weight, but I’m excited for the challenge.”
Gordon will be competing with former Leeds United star Raphinha for a starting role on the left wing, though he has also played up front for Newcastle in the past. He believes Barcelona possess “the best players in the world” and they can only help improve his game.
“To play with Lamine [Yamal] and the rest of the players is very exciting for me,” he said.
“I think the more players with quality around you, the better you are going to be.
“These players are at the very top level for a reason. They are the best players in the world.
“They have so much quality; when we [Newcastle] played them at St James’ Park, we could not touch the ball.”
Asked if he had spoken to Barcelona boss Hansi Flick before signing for the club, Gordon responded: “Yes, I spoke with Hansi Flick. I was already excited, but after speaking to him, I’m even more excited.
“He seems like a very nice person, an amazing man-manager.
“What he’s done at Barça in a very short time has been amazing. He’s brought the club so much success.”
pic.twitter.com/pNZAT9DIpv
