Gordon Embraces Redemption After Euro 2024 Disappointment
A waste of a summer – Anthony Gordon has openly reflected on his Euro 2024 campaign, describing it as “a waste of a summer for me,” while simultaneously expressing his enthusiasm for the ongoing World Cup 2026 tournament. The Newcastle United forward is currently navigating competition for England’s left wing position, a role he shares with what he describes as the “misunderstood” Marcus Rashford.
A Journey from Rustiness to Impact
Gordon’s contributions during England’s opening World Cup fixtures were relatively subdued, yet his teammate Rashford made notable impressions off the bench against both Croatia and Ghana. The 25-year-old midfielder then transformed into a decisive substitute during the dramatic encounter with DR Congo, providing assists for both of Harry Kane’s goals in England’s remarkable comeback victory.
His subsequent performance against co-hosts Mexico further demonstrated his capabilities, delivering a tireless ninety-minute display in the 3-2 triumph away from home. Reflecting on his progression through the tournament, Gordon explained his mindset shift.
When I’m called upon against DR Congo, I thought I reacted very well and got the two assists. I missed a lot of football towards the end of the season.
He continued by acknowledging his initial struggles: “I didn’t think it would feel how it felt in the first two games. I felt rusty, to be honest, but I used sort of as a platform for the DR Congo game because I felt I played safe.” Gordon recognized that he hadn’t been utilizing his natural strengths during those opening matches, but seized his opportunity when called upon against the Congolese side.
From Euro 2024 Disappointment to World Cup Opportunity
Gordon’s maiden major tournament experience came at Euro 2024, where his involvement was minimal. Across all seven of England’s matches en route to the final, he accumulated just one minute of normal playing time and five additional minutes as a substitute during the goalless group-stage encounter with Slovenia.
It was good looking back now, Gordon said. I didn’t enjoy at the time, but I can use that for experience.
The shirt number situation added another layer to his narrative. When England announced their World Cup squad, Gordon admitted he specifically requested number eleven. Instead, he received number eighteen—the same identifier he wore during Euro 2024. Rather than viewing this as a setback, Gordon embraced it as a chance for redemption.
But when I got No18, I said it’s actually a good thing because I get to put right in that number, because in the Euros I was No18 and I felt like it was a waste of a summer for me. So, I viewed this as an opportunity to make something special out of that number.
Barcelona Connection and Rashford Rivalry
The summer transfer window brought significant developments for both England left wingers. Gordon completed a move to Barcelona from Newcastle United, while Rashford—his primary competitor for playing time—learned that the Catalan club would not exercise their €30million (£26m) option to permanently secure his loan from Manchester United.
Despite these circumstances creating an interesting dynamic within the England setup, Gordon has maintained an excellent relationship with his teammate. He characterized Rashford as “a lovely person” whose public image doesn’t fully represent his character.
He is very misunderstood, I think, from the outside. I just think he has always got a bit of stick. From my point of view, he has always had a bit of a negative view, just a bit of stick. From when I met him and from all the camps I have been on with him, he is a really nice person, as most footballers are, by the way.
Gordon further praised Rashford’s humility and genuine love for the game, noting his kid-like enthusiasm and well-mannered upbringing. The competition between them, according to Gordon, is healthy and beneficial for both players at the elite level.
Support Beyond the Pitch
When asked whether Rashford had congratulated him on joining Barcelona—a move that potentially affected Rashford’s own future at the Spanish club—Gordon revealed that his teammate responded immediately upon seeing him.
He congratulated me as soon as he saw me, Gordon revealed. To be honest, he has been really helpful. I am trying to look for a house and he has helped me with things about the club, which is helpful, as I have not been there yet. He has been really helpful.
This gesture of support highlights the strong bond between the two players, demonstrating that their on-field rivalry exists alongside genuine friendship and mutual assistance as they both navigate life in Barcelona and their international careers with England.
