Anthony Gordon Insists Barcelona Are on the Same Level as PSG and Real Madrid

Posted : 02 November 2026

Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon has dismissed suggestions that Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are superior to his team, despite the Spanish champions suffering defeats against both European heavyweights in recent weeks.

Speaking ahead of Barcelona's Champions League meeting with Aston Villa on Tuesday, the England international insisted that Hansi Flick's squad has the quality to compete with Europe's leading clubs. He acknowledged that Barcelona must accept responsibility for their recent results but maintained that the defeats do not reflect a difference in overall ability.

Barcelona's unbeaten start to the season came to an end with a 4-2 loss to PSG in Paris on October 20. The Catalan side then suffered another setback three days later, losing 2-1 to Real Madrid in the latest edition of El Clasico.

Gordon believes Barcelona were disadvantaged by fatigue against PSG, pointing out that the French side had rested several key players during their domestic fixture before the Champions League encounter. Barcelona, by contrast, had no similar opportunity to rotate their squad.

The 25-year-old nevertheless accepted that his team must learn from the experience rather than use the circumstances as an excuse. He remains convinced that Barcelona can defeat any opponent when performing at their best.

Gordon was particularly disappointed by the defeat to Real Madrid, arguing that Barcelona had controlled significant portions of the contest and created better opportunities. However, defensive mistakes proved costly, allowing Madrid to secure victory through Kylian Mbappe's late intervention.

The winger believes his side should have taken something from the Clasico but acknowledged that they were not at their highest level. He added that Barcelona must improve their concentration when facing opponents with the individual quality to punish mistakes.

Attention has now shifted to Aston Villa's visit to Camp Nou, with Barcelona hoping to return to winning ways in Europe. The Premier League club have made an excellent start to their Champions League campaign, winning all three of their opening matches.

Gordon praised Villa manager Unai Emery, describing him as one of the leading coaches in world football. He also expects a difficult encounter against a team capable of remaining competitive throughout a match and exploiting opportunities when they arise.

The former Newcastle United forward joined Barcelona during the summer in a transfer worth up to €80 million. He has made an encouraging start in Spain, recording three goals and five assists in 13 appearances across all competitions.

However, Gordon believes there is considerable room for improvement as he continues adapting to a new club, playing style and environment. He explained that settling into life in Barcelona has been a significant change for him and his family, but he is confident that his best performances are still ahead.

The England international will hope to make a strong contribution against Aston Villa as Barcelona look to respond to their recent setbacks and demonstrate their ability to challenge Europe's top teams.

Anthony Gordon Insists Barcelona Are on the Same Level as PSG and Real Madrid

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