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Anthony Gordon has made a stunning start to life at Barcelona following his blockbuster summer switch from Newcastle United. The England international winger has not only impressed fans with his instant influence on the pitch, but has also quickly won strong respect from his new team-mates behind the scenes thanks to his grounded attitude.

An instant impact in Catalonia

Gordon sealed a high-profile transfer to Barcelona early in the summer window, with the deal reportedly valued at around £69.3 million. Despite the huge pressure that comes with arriving as a marquee signing, the 25-year-old has not behaved like a superstar and has instead slotted smoothly into Hansi Flick's squad. According to SPORT, his new team-mates have been hugely impressed by his humility and professionalism.

The England international has matched that positive approach with excellent displays on the field. Gordon made an immediate impression by providing two assists in a 25-minute cameo on his debut against Elche. He then followed it up by setting up another goal in a commanding 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano with an audacious back-heel pass.

Away from the pitch, Gordon is also making major efforts to embrace the local culture. After speaking in Spanish during his official unveiling in May, the winger is now undertaking intensive language lessons. He is also keen to learn Catalan in a further bid to endear himself to the club hierarchy and supporters.

Gordon explains the Spanish transition

Moving from the Premier League to La Liga has required some adjustment, but Gordon believes he is settling well into the different demands. In his view, the English top flight is driven by chaos, while his new environment calls for much greater precision.

"I’m not going to deny that the Premier League is incredibly intense," Gordon said. "The rhythm is relentless, there are physical battles everywhere, long band kicks, corner kicks and a lot of contact. That’s why many English players believe it is the best league in the world."

However, the forward was also quick to underline the strict tactical demands of Spanish football. He pointed out that technical mistakes are far less likely to be forgiven in La Liga than they are back in England.

"In England, sometimes intensity can cover up mistakes," he added. "Here, a bad first touch or a lack of concentration on your positioning can punish you immediately. The spaces are smaller, the decisions have to be faster and everything must be cleaner."

Leaving St James' Park behind

Looking back on his adaptation, Gordon praised his team-mates for their tactical patience. He highlighted how Barcelona methodically broke down Rayo Vallecano's defensive block through precise passing from Pedri and Lamine Yamal, drawing a contrast with the more direct style of football often seen in England.

His successful adjustment in Spain represents a clear turning point after a productive three-and-a-half-year spell at Newcastle. Gordon left St James' Park with 39 goals and 28 assists from 152 appearances for the Magpies.

Newcastle's new era under Jaissle

While Gordon is flourishing in Flick's demanding system, his former club are also managing a fresh beginning of their own. Newcastle brought in 20-year-old Bazoumana Toure as the winger's replacement, although the new arrival is currently waiting for regular Premier League starts behind Harvey Barnes and Anthony Elanga.

Under new manager Matthias Jaissle, the Magpies have stayed unbeaten in their opening league matches. After a 2-2 draw against Liverpool and an emphatic 2-0 victory over Tottenham, they will aim to continue that strong run when Bournemouth travel to Tyneside this weekend.