This seems to be the opposite story to what Gareth Bale had at Real Madrid. “Despite delivering spectacular goals and being decisive in important matches, the fans in Spain never fully embraced Bale. – One reason, he never “bothered” to learn Spanish. Real MAdrid fans felt they were way down on his priority list, we all remember “Wales, Golf, Madrid.
At yesterday’s press conference, Anthony Gordon arrived, professional, humble, proud and prepared. – He had dreamed of and more importantly planned for this moment since he was a little boy.
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Anthony Gordon impressed journalists by speaking fluent Spanish during the unveiling in Barcelona
Anthony Gordon says that he learned Spanish as a child because he always believed that one day he would play for Barcelona – this after his transfer from Newcastle.
The England international was unveiled by the Spanish champions on Friday, after he had signed a contract that lasts until 2031. The transfer is believed to be worth around 80 million euros.
Gordon surprised many of the attendees when he answered several questions during his introductory press conference – in fluent Spanish.
Gordon explains the fluency of Spanish during the unveiling
When asked in Spanish about the pressure that comes with the transfer fee, Gordon replied that he was ready to take on the challenge.
“I know the history of this club and the incredible players who have worn this shirt,” he said.
“I’m very excited and proud to be here. This is a dream come true.”
The 25-year-old later explained that learning the language had been part of a long-cherished ambition to play for Barcelona.
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“I was looking forward to playing for Barca when I was three years old,” Gordon said.
“I wanted to speak Spanish because as a child I thought I was going to play football for Barca.”
“I had a physiotherapist in Newcastle and we talked every day. I always told him that one day I would play for Barcelona and therefore I wanted to learn Spanish.”
Barcelona strengthens their attack with English winger
Barcelona acted quickly to secure Gordon’s signature, amid interest from several top European clubs.
The winger comes after an impressive season at Newcastle, where he scored 17 goals in all competitions – including 10 goals in 12 games in the Champions League.
In a statement announcing the signing, Barcelona highlighted Gordon’s offensive qualities and his performances against the Catalan team in Europe.
The club described him as Newcastle’s top scorer last season, and as one of the most effective dribblers in European football.
Looking forward to playing alongside Yamal
Gordon admitted that the opportunity to play alongside some of Barcelona’s top stars was a big part of the attraction.
“Playing alongside Lamine Yamal and the rest of the players is very exciting for me,” he said.
“The more quality players you have around you, the better you will be.”
“These players are among the best in the world, and you see why when you play against them.”
Gordon faced Barcelona in the Champions League knockout rounds this season. Newcastle drew in the first leg at St. James’ Park, before eventually losing big on aggregate over the two games.
An emotional farewell to Newcastle
The transfer marks the end of a successful period at Newcastle that lasted three and a half years.
Gordon was signed from Everton in January 2023 for £45 million. He made 152 appearances for the Magpies, scoring 39 goals and providing 28 assists.
He also played a key role in the club’s long wait for a major trophy, with victory in the League Cup last season.
Newcastle praised the winger on social media after the transfer was confirmed. The club thanked him for his efforts and wished him the best of luck in Spain.
Gordon now enters the World Cup as part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. He will be the last England international to play abroad, alongside the likes of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Ivan Toney.
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