Anthony Gordon's high-profile move to Barcelona is fuelling his ambition to win the Ballon d'Or as he prepares for his first El Clásico. The 23-year-old England international joined the Catalan club in May 2026 for a fee of £69.3m and has quickly become a key figure on the left flank.

Gordon made an instant impact with two assists on his Barcelona debut in August. He has now contributed four assists in his first ten LaLiga appearances and scored his first two goals for the club after the recent international break. His performances have helped facilitate a tactical shift, with Raphinha moving to a central role and posting impressive goal figures.

England and World Cup form

His club form follows a standout World Cup campaign with England, where he scored three goals in three games, including a strike in the semi-final against Argentina. Gordon is now the established first-choice left winger for his country.

The winger believes his game has developed significantly since arriving at Spotify Camp Nou. "I believe anyone can achieve anything they put their mind to - they just need a lot of luck," Gordon said. He feels he offers more than just speed and pressing, citing a higher football IQ and a more controlled, dominant style of play.

Clásico context and Ballon d'Or aim

His next challenge is the 265th edition of El Clásico against Real Madrid on Sunday. Barcelona go into the match having won six of the seven meetings under manager Hansi Flick. Their season began with 11 consecutive wins, averaging over four goals per game, though a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday exposed some defensive issues. Real Madrid, six points behind Barcelona in La Liga, have won seven and lost two of their league matches this term.

Gordon is excited to test himself among the superstars in such a prestigious fixture. He also has a personal milestone in sight, with the Ballon d'Or award to be presented on Monday. The former Newcastle loanee has been mentioned in the same conversation as teammates like Lamine Yamal, whom he calls the best winger on the planet, and other contenders like Harry Kane. "I've always dreamt of that since a kid," Gordon said of the prestigious individual award. His surprise signing, alongside Karim Adeyemi, has provided Barcelona with a solid and evolving option as they pursue major honours this season.

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