Barcelona’s sporting director Deco said Anthony Gordon’s style aligns better with Hansi Flick’s plans than Marcus Rashford’s, after the club bolstered its squad this summer.
Rashford, who netted 14 goals in all competitions during his loan spell, was offered a permanent deal worth €35m (£30.3m) but the club opted not to extend his stay, sending him back to Old Trafford.
Gordon, who joined from Newcastle United for a fee exceeding €80m (£69.3m), has made five appearances for the Catalans, providing four assists and fitting into the team’s need for more intensity and energy when wingers like Raphinha were unavailable.
Speaking to RAC1, Deco praised Rashford’s contribution but noted that the club’s play style is “much more linked to Anthony’s.” He added that Barcelona had analysed several wingers before deciding on Gordon, citing the Premier League’s difficulty in finding the right fit.
Barcelona have won all four of their La Liga games so far, scoring 17 goals and conceding just two.
Next steps for the club will see Gordon continue to integrate into Flick’s system, while the club evaluates other potential signings to maintain their competitive edge.
