Dream debut for Anthony Gordon as substitute bags two quick assists in Barcelona's 5-0 win over Elche
Instant impact off bench
Introduced as a 65th-minute substitute for Yamal, Gordon made an immediate impression by registering two assists in five minutes. Operating from the left flank, the 25-year-old England winger first slipped in captain Raphinha before squaring the ball for Lopez to tap into an empty net. His rapid contribution wrapped up an emphatic 5-0 rout for the reigning champions in the opening match.
Winger hails perfect start
Speaking to reporters after the match, Gordon expressed his delight at the warm reception from the squad and his seamless adaptation to life in Catalonia. Reflecting on his debut, Gordon said: "I feel so good. I have felt so good since I arrived. The guys have made me feel so welcome, I feel at home already. The city is amazing. The people are so friendly. I will get better and better the longer I am here."
Evaluating the team's display, he added: "It was a top performance. I think it was the perfect start, five goals scored and none conceded. We played some lovely football, scored great goals and, more importantly, I thought the defenders made some excellent last minute challenges and blocks."
Title defence starts strongly
The commanding win ensured Barcelona matched title rivals Real Madrid, who also opened their campaign with an away victory at Espanyol. Fellow summer arrival Karim Adeyemi scored on his debut after joining from Borussia Dortmund, though the evening was slightly dampened by a first-half injury to Gavi. Notably, Gordon's quick-fire brace of assists matched his entire Premier League assist return from 2025-26 with Newcastle, where he finished as top scorer on 17 goals.
Athletic Club test looms
Barcelona continue their title defence on Thursday night when they host Athletic Club at Camp Nou. Hansi Flick will hope Gavi's injury is not serious as he looks to maintain midfield stability early in the campaign. The immediate impact of Gordon alongside Adeyemi's sharpness gives the German coach potent attacking depth and tactical flexibility moving forward.
