Anthony Gordon (footballer)

Anthony Gordon has rapidly risen through the ranks of English football, transforming from a promising academy talent into a dynamic winger for both Newcastle United and the England national team. His journey has been marked by thrilling performances, challenging transfers, and significant international recognition. Join us as we explore the career of a player who consistently makes headlines, showcasing his drive and evolution on the pitch. Anthony Gordon's career began at Everton, where he developed from a youth academy player into a standout first-team talent before a high-profile transfer. He achieved significant international success at the youth level, notably leading England to a UEFA European Under-21 Championship title and earning 'Player of the Tournament' honors. Since joining Newcastle United, Gordon has become a pivotal attacking force, earning recognition as the club's Player of the Season and making his debut for the senior England squad.

Source: Wikipedia

AI Summary

Anthony Gordon has rapidly risen through the ranks of English football, transforming from a promising academy talent into a dynamic winger for both Newcastle United and the England national team. His journey has been marked by thrilling performances, challenging transfers, and significant international recognition. Join us as we explore the career of a player who consistently makes headlines, showcasing his drive and evolution on the pitch.

From Liverpool to Everton's Youth Ranks

Anthony Michael Gordon, born in Liverpool in 2001, showed early promise in football. Though he briefly spent time in Liverpool's Academy, it was with their crosstown rivals, Everton, that his professional journey truly began—joining the Toffees' youth setup at just 11 years old.

A Glimpse of the Big Stage

Gordon's talent was quickly recognized, and he earned his senior debut for Everton in a UEFA Europa League match in December 2017, at the tender age of 16. Coming on as an 88th-minute substitute, it was a brief but significant moment, signaling his arrival on the professional scene.

Breaking into the Premier League

His Premier League debut arrived in January 2020, followed by his first Premier League start later that year in a derby against Liverpool. These early appearances marked him as a bright prospect, leading to him signing a new five-year contract with Everton, committing his future to the club.

A Loan Spell for Development

To gain more consistent first-team experience, Gordon moved to Championship club Preston North End on loan in February 2021. This temporary move allowed him to hone his skills and adapt to the rigors of senior professional football, preparing him for a more prominent role back at Everton.

Everton Breakthrough Season

The 2021-22 season proved to be a breakthrough. Gordon registered his first senior assist and then scored his first goals for Everton in a memorable match against Brighton. He went on to score the winning goal against Manchester United, solidifying his status as a key player and earning him the club's Young Player of the Year award from both the senior team and supporters.

A Turbulent Departure

The 2022-23 season was fraught with challenges for Gordon at Everton. Despite scoring key goals, he faced controversy—including on-pitch scuffles and reports of not training to force a move. His departure to Newcastle United in January 2023 was a contentious one, leaving many Everton fans with mixed feelings.

Joining the Magpies: Newcastle United

Gordon's highly anticipated transfer to Newcastle United in January 2023 saw him move for a reported £40 million fee. His debut came quickly, but his initial period was challenging, including an ankle injury and a public disagreement with manager Eddie Howe after being substituted.

Finding His Form and Fan Favorite Status

The 2023-24 season saw Gordon truly hit his stride at St. James' Park. He provided crucial assists and scored his first home goal for Newcastle against his boyhood club, Liverpool. His exceptional performances earned him Newcastle United's Player of the Season award, solidifying his importance to the team as they also secured the EFL Cup.

Discipline and European Prowess

While his passionate play sometimes leads to disciplinary issues—like a controversial red card against Liverpool—Gordon has also shone on the European stage. In the 2024-25 season, he became the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League matches, showcasing his ability on football's grandest platform.

A Historic European Night

The 2025-26 Champions League play-offs brought a truly historic night for Gordon. He scored four goals in a stunning 6-1 victory over Qarabağ, marking his first senior hat-trick and becoming the first Newcastle player in history to score four goals in a single European competition match. It was a performance that etched his name into the club's record books.

Representing England

Gordon's international journey began early, representing England at various youth levels, including U18, U19, and U20. These experiences laid the groundwork for his future success on the national stage.

Under-21 European Champion

His biggest youth international triumph came in 2023 when he was a key figure in England's UEFA European Under-21 Championship-winning squad. Gordon scored vital goals in the group stage and quarter-finals, ultimately starting the final as England lifted the trophy.

Player of the Tournament

Gordon's stellar performances throughout the Under-21 Euros were recognized with the prestigious Player of the Tournament award. He was also named in the Team of the Tournament, highlighting his exceptional impact and leadership on the pitch.

Senior England Call-Up

In March 2024, Gordon received his first call-up to the senior England squad, making his debut against Brazil at Wembley Stadium. His consistent club form and youth international pedigree earned him a spot in England's 26-man squad for UEFA Euro 2024.

First International Goal

The pinnacle of any international career often involves scoring for your country. Anthony Gordon achieved this milestone on 17 November 2024, netting his first senior international goal in a commanding 5-0 UEFA Nations League victory against the Republic of Ireland.

Life Beyond the Pitch

Away from the roar of the stadium, Anthony Gordon balances his demanding football career with family life. He became a father in 2023, embracing this new chapter alongside his partner, Annie Keating.

The Power of Reading

Uniquely, Gordon has spoken about the significant role books play in driving his success and personal development. He cites 'The Art of Winning' by legendary New Zealand rugby player Dan Carter as a particular favorite, demonstrating a mindset focused on continuous improvement and learning.

Achievements and Accolades

Anthony Gordon's career, though still young, is already decorated with significant honors, both individually and as part of a team. From youth accolades to major domestic trophies and international recognition, his list of achievements continues to grow.

EFL Cup: 2024–25 UEFA European Under-21 Championship: 2023 UEFA European Championship runner-up: 2024 CEE Cup Player of the Tournament: 2017 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Player of the Tournament: 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Team of the Tournament: 2023 Newcastle United Player of the Season: 2023–24

Article

Anthony Gordon (footballer)

Anthony Michael Gordon (born 24 February 2001) is an English professional footballer who plays as a left winger for La Liga club Barcelona and the England national team.

Gordon began his professional career with Everton, making his senior debut in December 2017 in a Europa League match, before joining Newcastle United in 2023. In 2026, he joined Spanish club Barcelona.

Early life

Anthony Gordon (footballer)

Anthony Michael Gordon was born on 24 February 2001 in Liverpool, Merseyside. He is of Irish and Scottish descent.

Club career

Everton

Gordon playing for Everton in 2021

Gordon joined Everton as an 11-year-old following his release from Liverpool's Academy. On 6 December 2017, Gordon was named in Everton's first-team squad for the Europa League match away to Apollon Limassol. A day later, he made his first-team debut in the fixture, coming on as an 88th-minute substitute in a 3–0 win.

On 18 January 2020, Gordon made his Premier League debut coming on as a substitute for Bernard in a 1–1 draw with West Ham United. On 26 June, he received his first Premier League start in a 0–0 draw with Liverpool. On 1 September, Gordon signed a new five-year contract with Everton.

On 1 February 2021, Gordon joined Championship club Preston North End on loan for the remainder of the 2020–21 season. Five days later, he made his debut for Preston, being included in the starting line-up for a 2–1 home league defeat by Rotherham United.

On 16 December, Gordon registered his first assist for Everton, as Jarrad Branthwaite scored from his free-kick in a 1–1 draw with Chelsea. On 2 January 2022, he scored his first goals for the Toffees in a 3–2 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion. On 12 February, in a 3–0 win over Leeds United, he assisted Michael Keane for Everton's second goal, before scoring their third in the second half. On 9 April, Gordon scored the only goal of the game in a win over Manchester United. In May, he was named Young Player of the Year by the senior team and the club's supporters. During the 2022 summer transfer window, he was linked with Chelsea.

Gordon scored his first goals of the season in back-to-back matches against Brentford and Leeds United. He was suspended for the match against Tottenham Hotspur, because of yellow card accumulation, and returned in a 1–0 defeat to Newcastle United. He had a scuffle with Kieran Trippier, which led to a confrontation with Fabian Schär, resulting in both players getting booked. (The three players were reunited soon after his transfer to Newcastle, which was noted for Gordon's awkward interaction with Schär.) In the next match, he scored Everton's second goal in a 3–0 win over Crystal Palace. Illness kept him out for three matches, and in what turned out to be his last appearance for the Toffees, he came on as a 69th-minute substitute against Southampton. After the match, he and Yerry Mina were harassed by a small section of Everton supporters. During the January transfer window, Sky Sports reported that Gordon had failed to show up to training in order to force a move away from the club to fellow Premier League club Newcastle United. Gordon later expressed he had been disappointed by the curt manner that Everton announced his departure, and stated that he "was a massive part in keeping the club up" the previous season.

Newcastle United

Gordon (right) warming up for Newcastle United in 2026

On 29 January 2023, Gordon joined Newcastle United on a long-term contract, having submitted a formal transfer request to previous club Everton. The transfer fee reported by BBC Sport was an initial £40 million, potentially rising to £45 million in add-ons. He made his debut on 4 February as a 69th-minute substitute in a 1–1 draw at home to West Ham United. On 4 March, Gordon was named in the starting line-up for the first time in a 2–0 loss to Manchester City, but was taken off in the 62nd minute, and an ankle injury would see him miss the next two matches. After making his return in a 2–0 win over Manchester United, he was mainly used as a substitute. On 8 April, against Brentford, he came on at half-time, but had the ignominy of being subbed off. He reacted angrily to manager Eddie Howe, who later explained that Gordon had come off as a precaution because of his ankle injury. Expecting a hostile reception upon his return to Goodison Park on 27 April, his contribution ended up being minimal, with the game already won as Newcastle were 4–1 up. On 28 May, Gordon scored his first goal for the club in a 1–1 draw with Chelsea on the final day of the 2022–23 season.

On 12 August 2023, Gordon assisted Sandro Tonali for the opening goal in a 5–1 win over Aston Villa in Newcastle's first game of the 2023–24 season. On 27 August, Gordon scored his first home goal for Newcastle in a 2–1 defeat against boyhood club Liverpool. Gordon continued his fine form over the course of the season, earning him Newcastle United's Player of the Season awards.

Although Gordon could not play in the final due to suspension, he scored goals in both legs of the 2025 EFL Cup semi-final victory against Arsenal, helping the team to become the first Newcastle United side to win a major domestic trophy in 70 years.

On 25 August 2025, Gordon became the second Premier League player since Mason Holgate to be sent off in each of the past three seasons when he committed a dangerous tackle on Virgil van Dijk after referee Simon Hooper viewed the VAR monitor when the yellow card decision was overturned. In his absence, Newcastle went on to suffer a late 3–2 defeat to Liverpool. Later that year, on 21 October, he scored in Newcastle's 3–0 home win over Benfica in the Champions League, becoming the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive matches in the competition.

On 18 February 2026, Gordon scored four goals in an 6–1 win over Qarabağ in the UEFA Champions League play-offs, marking his first senior hat-trick and becoming the third Newcastle player to score a hat-trick in the Champions League, alongside Faustino Asprilla and Alan Shearer. He also became the first Newcastle player to score four goals in a single match in a European competition. In addition, he became only the second English player to score at least 10 goals in a single UEFA Champions League campaign, following Harry Kane, who achieved the feat in the 2024–25 season.

Barcelona

On 29 May 2026, Gordon joined La Liga club Barcelona on a five-year contract, starting from 1 July 2026. The deal was reportedly worth €80m. Later that year, on 23 August, he made his debut, providing two assists in a 5–0 away victory against Elche. On 1 September, he further provided another assist helping Barcelona secure a 5-2 victory against Rayo Vallecano.

International career

Youth career

Having represented his country at U18 and U19 level, Gordon made his debut for the England under-20s during a 2–0 victory over Wales at St George's Park on 13 October 2020.

On 5 November 2021, Gordon received his first call up for the England under-21s and scored twice on his debut, a 3–1 victory over Czech Republic at Turf Moor in 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualification on 11 November 2021.

On 14 June 2023, Gordon was included in the England squad for the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. He scored during a group stage victory over Israel and also recorded the only goal of the quarter-final against Portugal. On 8 July 2023, Gordon started in the final as England beat Spain to lift the trophy. Gordon was named Player of the Tournament and also chosen in the Team of the Tournament.

Senior career

Gordon with England at the 2026 World Cup

Gordon received his first call up for the England senior squad in March 2024 for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. He made his debut on 23 March when starting England's 1–0 defeat to Brazil at Wembley Stadium. He was named in England's 26-man squad for UEFA Euro 2024.

On 17 November 2024, Gordon scored his first senior international goal in a 5–0 UEFA Nations League victory against the Republic of Ireland.

In May 2026, Gordon was named in the 26-man squad to represent England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He provided two assists for goals scored by Harry Kane in a 2–1 win over DR Congo in the World Cup Round of 32. He scored the opening goal against Argentina in the semi-finals but England were eventually eliminated in a 2–1 loss.

Personal life

Anthony Gordon (footballer)

Gordon is in a relationship with Annie Keating. He became a father in 2023.

Gordon has spoken about the importance of books in driving his success, citing The Art of Winning by former New Zealand rugby player Dan Carter.

Career statistics

Club

<table><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Club</th><th rowspan="2">Season</th><th colspan="3">League</th><th colspan="2">National cup</th><th colspan="2">League cup</th><th colspan="2">Europe</th><th colspan="2">Other</th><th colspan="2">Total</th></tr><tr><th>Division</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="7">Everton</td><td>2017–18</td><td>Premier League</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>1</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>2018–19</td><td>Premier League</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>2019–20</td><td>Premier League</td><td>11</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>12</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>2020–21</td><td>Premier League</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>7</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>2021–22</td><td>Premier League</td><td>35</td><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>40</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>2022–23</td><td>Premier League</td><td>16</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>18</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><th colspan="2">Total</th><th>65</th><th>7</th><th>7</th><th>0</th><th>5</th><th>0</th><th>1</th><th>0</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th>78</th><th>7</th></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">Everton U21</td><td>2018–19</td><td colspan="3">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>2019–20</td><td colspan="3">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><th colspan="2">Total</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th>4</th><th>1</th><th>4</th><th>1</th></tr><tr><td>Preston North End (loan)</td><td>2020–21</td><td>Championship</td><td>11</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>11</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="5">Newcastle United</td><td>2022–23</td><td>Premier League</td><td>16</td><td>1</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>16</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>2023–24</td><td>Premier League</td><td>35</td><td>11</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>6</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>48</td><td>12</td></tr><tr><td>2024–25</td><td>Premier League</td><td>34</td><td>6</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>6</td><td>2</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>42</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>2025–26</td><td>Premier League</td><td>26</td><td>6</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>5</td><td>0</td><td>12</td><td>10</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>46</td><td>17</td></tr><tr><th colspan="2">Total</th><th>111</th><th>24</th><th>9</th><th>3</th><th>14</th><th>2</th><th>18</th><th>10</th><th colspan="2">—</th><th>152</th><th>39</th></tr><tr><td>Barcelona</td><td>2026–27</td><td>La Liga</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td colspan="2">—</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><th colspan="3">Career total</th><th>190</th><th>31</th><th>16</th><th>3</th><th>19</th><th>2</th><th>19</th><th>10</th><th>4</th><th>1</th><th>246</th><th>47</th></tr></tbody></table>

International

<table><thead><tr><th>National team</th><th>Year</th><th>Apps</th><th>Goals</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="3">England</td><td>2024</td><td>9</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>2025</td><td>7</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>2026</td><td>9</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><th colspan="2">Total</th><th>25</th><th>4</th></tr></tbody></table>

As of match played 15 July 2026 England score listed first, score column indicates score after each Gordon goal

<table><thead><tr><th>No.</th><th>Date</th><th>Venue</th><th>Cap</th><th>Opponent</th><th>Score</th><th>Result</th><th>Competition</th><th>Ref.</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>17 November 2024</td><td>Wembley Stadium, London, England</td><td>9</td><td> Republic of Ireland</td><td>2–0</td><td>5–0</td><td>2024–25 UEFA Nations League B</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>14 October 2025</td><td>Daugava Stadium, Riga, Latvia</td><td>16</td><td> Latvia</td><td>1–0</td><td>5–0</td><td>2026 FIFA World Cup qualification</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>10 June 2026</td><td>Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, United States</td><td>19</td><td> Costa Rica</td><td>2–0</td><td>3–0</td><td>Friendly</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>15 July 2026</td><td>Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta United States</td><td>25</td><td> Argentina</td><td>1–0</td><td>1–2</td><td>2026 FIFA World Cup</td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

Honours

Anthony Gordon (footballer)

• EFL Cup: 2024–25

• UEFA European Under-21 Championship: (/wiki/2023UEFAEuropeanUnder-21Championship)

• UEFA European Championship runner-up: (/wiki/UEFAEuro2024) • FIFA World Cup third place: (/wiki/2026FIFAWorldCup)

• CEE Cup Player of the Tournament: 2017 • UEFA European Under-21 Championship Player of the Tournament: 2023 • UEFA European Under-21 Championship Team of the Tournament: (/wiki/2023UEFAEuropeanUnder-21Championship#Teamofthetournament) • Newcastle United Player of the Season: 2023–24